Thread: Key stuck and Dead Car

I have had this problem twice now. A little background, the key is a blank that i had cut and program it to my car it is not a master i do have a master though. anyway in the past 2 weeks i have had the car completely die when i try to start it. everything dead and i can't remove the key. At first i thought it was the battery even though it is tested fine when i hooked it back up i could remove the key and everything was fine. the second time happen last night the same way but this time i just disconnected the battery and reconnected it and everything was fine and i could remove the key and start the car. Could it be the battery it seems to be the original ac delco that could have come in the car. There is no date when it was installed. A friend of mine said it was a sensor that cause the security system to shut the car off. I research on the web and found this website. Pontiac Grand Prix Key cannot be removed from ignition - CarSpace Automotive Forums they say it could be either battery or shift assembly. What do you guys think?

the key can't be removed when the battery is dead, because there is an electric solenoid that has to have power to release the key. -- it sounds like you need to get your battery tested, and clean/tighten the battery cables... i'd also check the cable connections at the starter to make sure they're tight.

you can take the battery out and take it to autozone/ other auto parts store to have it tested (can test it in the car if you drive it there also)


as far as the shifter assembly, that's next on the list, but you can also inspect the wiring on it and see if the wiring is cut/damaged...

I did have the battery test the first time it happen at autozone and it tested fine. But I don't know the age of the battery. I suspect it is original to the car.

Don't know if this is realated but i also have a problem every time i start the car. If i don't' pat the gas when it is started it will idle down so low that it will cut off. and i can see that the lights dim when that happens.

Originally Posted by joe_cool

I did have the battery test the first time it happen at autozone and it tested fine. But I don't know the age of the battery. I suspect it is original to the car.

Don't know if this is realated but i also have a problem every time i start the car. If i don't' pat the gas when it is started it will idle down so low that it will cut off. and i can see that the lights dim when that happens.

that could be related, or it could be totally separate. --- if it's related, then it could be the alternator.. have that checked.

if it's unrelated, theres a good list of things it could be.

The problem stems from a faulty security system. I know because my 97 Grand Prix GTP has been doing the same thing every summer for about 3 years.

I have yet to find a permanent fix that I am willing to do.. I've read afew internet posts that say a new chip for security system will fix it. Also that it is related to a sensor having to do with the ignition, that the key being offset (or not a master) can cause the system to lock you out, assuming tampering. A heavy keychain can also cause the same system to lock you out.. and I assume repeated use of a REALLY heavy one could damage the system.

Disconnecting the negative on your battery will reset the system (including your radio) and using the selenoid switch under the steering column will release the key.

I am still searching for a permanent fix to the electrical system, security, or selenoid that will not cost me an arm and a leg.

Hope this helps.. if anyone can add anything I'd appreciate some feedback as well.