Can't get key out of ignition

[eccs19]

1999 Regal GS. Started having issues where key wouldn't go back to position where I could remove the key, but if I fiddled, I could get it back, and remove key. This morning, same thing, but can't get it out no matter what. Any suggestions?

[richtazz]

It sounds like you have a bad ignition key cylinder. If the key went to the off position but just wouldn't come out, I'd say it's a key release solenoid. But since the key won't even rotate back to the off position, the key cylinder is the most likely problem.

[eccs19]

I stopped at the dealer on the way home, and they mentioned there was a small hole (after removing plug), and you can put a small screwdriver in there, and see if that removes the key. I got home and tried it, and key came out. Key has not stuck in again, so not sure if just lucky or not.

[eccs19]

Well, tried it again, and the key wouldn't come out again. Put the screw driver in the hole, and it came out. Dealer suggested that sometimes the wire under the counsel, comes off, and can cause that to happen. Does this sound like a possibility in this case?

[BNaylor]

It doesn't sound like a shift interlock/BTSI issue meaning the shifter assembly or console. Based on your symptom more like a key release solenoid issue or the key cylinder at the steering column.

[eccs19]

Originally Posted by BNaylor

It doesn't sound like a shift interlock/BTSI issue meaning the shifter assembly or console. Based on your symptom more like a key release solenoid issue or the key cylinder at the steering column.

Is it difficult to change / check these items?

[BNaylor]

You will have to remove the upper and lower steering column plastic covers or the shifter assembly to troubleshoot and check for 12 volts to the key release solenoid.

Try this. With shifter in PARK, Ignition to ON (engine not running) and foot on brake press the shifter button located on the top of the shift knob. You should hear the key release solenoid clunk at the steering column. This may help deciding in which direction to head.

[eccs19]

Well I finally got around to taking the lower cover off the column, and here's what I've found. The solenoid sometimes activates, and sometimes it doesn't. I've got a multi meter, so next time it give me trouble I'll check to see if the solenoid is getting voltage or not. What should it be? 12V?

[eccs19]

Just noticed the last post said 12V. I'll check it, and post back results.

[eccs19]

Finally got some time to check the voltage going to the solenoid. Problem doesn't seem to be the solenoid. Sometimes the voltage is getting there, sometimes it doesn't. I found if I've got my foot on the brake, and push the button on the shifter, then sometimes the voltage is getting to it, sometimes it doesn't. Seems hit and miss. A couple of times it finally got there, took maybe 30 seconds or so before the solenoid tripped. What would be the next logical place to look? Ignition switch, or somewhere else?

[capitalv]

Had the same problem with an 02. there is a selenoid in the counsil that gets gummed up because of a soda spill (cup holder is right there) or other beverage. Remove the counsil cover and use contact cleaner to dissolve the build up on the selenoid. press the brake several times and press the button on the shifter to activate the selenoid. Also the selenoid requires 12 volts so if your battery is iffy that could also be the problem. Good Luck.