cannot remove ignition key when i turn off car
11 Answers
Make sure your power steering is not luck it.
Make sure vehicle is fully in park, jiggle the key to see if it will release from ignition.
Car is in park and key will not release
ShadeTreeChris answered 5 years ago
My 2007 Chevy Equinox does the same thing! I have to remember that when I pull into the parking space and park, not to immediately turn off the key. If I do, it will not release it. If I wait just a few beats then turn it off, sometimes that helps. Also, I have noticed that my column makes a clicking sound, two clicks together will not release my key, I have to wait for 1 single click. Once this happens, the key will release and I can get on with my day. I’ve been dealing with this for at least 4 years or so. I’ve read it has something to do with the gear shifter and the ignition not “communicating” with each other properly. Too expensive of a fix. I just live with it. Also, I did call one dealership once about it. They acted like they had never heard of the problem even though I’ve found hundreds of comment threads from people complaining about this problem.
I have no answer but I wanna just say how did you do this four years I am so frustrated and I just literally cry sitting in my car just today it took almost 2 hours maybe more just to get my key out in 117 degrees how much does it cost to actually fix it ?
I have been having this problem. We changed the ignition and it happened again. The dealership acted like they could only get my car to do this once. It happens almost all the time. They also wouldn't commit to what the problem is - probably to protect themself. Very frustrating.
Just turn your wheel a little left or a little right and try again. Its something with the staring wheel that locks it up.
look under the wheel and remove the cap a lil whole is there stick your finger in a spring will be there just push it back and the key will come out.
Not all vehicles have that little hole. Here is a interesting video explaining how to rig the mechanism that is causing the problem. If you cant do it maybe you can get your machanic to do it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnZmF0FpjmA
TRY THIS!! Mine was not turning all the way off (staying in accessory mode) some of the time. I narrowed it down to the button on the shifter not coming out all the way. If you push the chrome plastic piece down directly under the knob (using a small flat head screwdriver) it will expose a hex set screw. Loosen this screw and remove knob, clean and lubricate(lightly). When you put it back together make sure when you press it in you hear a click in the steering wheel; this is what retains the key. Release button making sure it comes all the way out and you hear the click again! Hope this helps!!
