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JonnyB2
New User
Oct 4, 2007, 9:20 PM
Post #1 of 4
(1661 views)
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Key is stuck in ignition
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The key in my 01 Buick Regal is getting stuck. The car goes in park but it just won't release the key. It doesn't happen all the time, but it happens quite frequently. This drains the battery and then I have to jump it all the time. Can anyone possibly tell me what the problem is and how I can fix it.
(This post was edited by JonnyB2 on Oct 4, 2007, 9:24 PM)
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DrElectrics
Enthusiast
Oct 5, 2007, 6:50 PM
Post #2 of 4
(1650 views)
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Re: Key is stuck in ignition
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Hmm, this is just my opinion. But inside the ignition switch, there is a contact. When you turn your key to ACC or ON, this contact engages to give power to the relevant things. This contact also is the thing that will not let you take the key out while in ACC / ON.
Unles Tom or Way2Old have seen this before, i am going to suggest replacing your ignition switch. I dont know if there is a quick fix thing on this one. My experiences with ignition switches is in Australia. So it may be different there.
Try pushing in, on the key also while turning back to off position, that sometimes works.
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way2old
Veteran
/ Moderator
Oct 5, 2007, 6:54 PM
Post #3 of 4
(1649 views)
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Re: Key is stuck in ignition
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I have to agree with you doc. SOunds like the ignition switch is keeping the key cylinder from turning all the way back.
Being way2old is why I need help from younger minds
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Oct 6, 2007, 3:18 AM
Post #4 of 4
(1643 views)
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Re: Key is stuck in ignition
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Hmmm is right on?? There's two things happening here and that suggests ONE cause. The key not releasing alone you would suspect the barb in the lock cylinder isn't retracting. The battery still empowering things to drain it suggests that the ignition switch is not in the true OFF position.
In cars with the key on column the lock cylinder is remotely (rods in column) moving the actual ignition switch. When keys were in dash this was all in the same switch.
Ok: The common item that could cause BOTH problems could be the remote connection between the lock cylinder and the ignition switch. If this car has a "chip" in key as an anti-theft it probably is NOT the issue.
I think the linkage between lock cylinder and electrical ign switch is not correct from wear or perhaps from the severe abuse of these items being messed up as in when a car gets stolen or the attempt to do so. WAS THIS/IS THIS IN THIS CAR'S HISTORY? If unknown is it a possibility?
I bet if this key is nudged towards "acc" position it would stop the electrical drain and key may always come out there.
_______________________
A big problem here is that this will almost certainly require some or lots of of steering column parts removal/steering wheel and working in and around AIR BAG!!!! That's the problem with this fix. I suggest all caution be the rule for the likely exporative work needed to pin point the problem.
Please use good judgment and be safe with the fix,
T
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