2002 won't release key from ignition

[BLOWN93LX]

I have 2002 GT that will not release the key from the ignition when I turn off the car.

If I let the car set for a while, something will click in the steering column/lock cyclinder and then the key will turn back the rest of the way and come out.

Any ideas on how to resolve this would be great!

Thanks!!

[l3enner]

From the sounds of it you may have to replace the cylinder.
I've heard mention on these boards about people "bypassing" the lock cylinder.

Maybe one of those guys will see this : )

[skidoojames151]

ha my car has the opposite...the key comes out no matter if the car is running or ign off or on accesory

[l3enner]

sounds like you unnintentionally bypassed the lock cylinder! well done! hahaha
too bad "Blown93x" couldn't be so lucky. haha

[blueguy]

Rip that damn solenoid out. Take off the bottom of the steering wheel cover and you'll see it...I think it is 2 bolts and pull it out.

[mystic231]

I also replied up in the Intro section.

Here it is again:

With regards to your problem, what's happening to the shifter? Does it work like it should?
When your key gets stuck in the ignition there is a plug you can pull out of a hole on the bottom of the steering column and insert a small screw driver. You will cause the lock cylinder to rotate to the "off" position so you can get your key out. This is part of the shift interlock system.
I would start by pulling your console out and looking for a wire that is broken/loose on the shift interlock connector. There is a wire that controls the lock release solenoid in the column. If that wire is loose or on the verge of breaking a situation like yours can happen. The shift interlock connector (BTSI) harness moves when you use the shifter and the wires (which are #20 AWG) wear out and can come off. I just repaired mine on my '98 so a lot of this is still fresh. My problem was intermittant at first until the connection totally failed.

[uNda6gT]

lol mine won't come out unless I put the screwdriver under the steering wheel column but sometimes I can take my key out while the car is still running,and I can't come out of park unless I use my shift lock release button...damn GM's

[blueguy]

lol mine won't come out unless I put the screwdriver under the steering wheel column but sometimes I can take my key out while the car is still running,and I can't come out of park unless I use my shift lock release button...damn GM's

Well, that's nice and ghetto. Just take out the solenoid.

[BLOWN93LX]

Rip that damn solenoid out. Take off the bottom of the steering wheel cover and you'll see it...I think it is 2 bolts and pull it out.

I like this plan....it sounds like a solenoid issue to begin with it. If it isn't need it will be gone by the end of the weekend.

[blueguy]

Nope, you don't need it. It is a white cylinder looking thingy too with a joint/hinge in it IIRC...

[gotboost3]

rip it out x2 i ripped mine out no regrets...

[Bio248]

usually if my key doesnt come out its because the steering wheel is in the wrong position. move the wheel, pull the key.

[TheOtherNick]

Pulled my solenoid out too.

[Traeger2591]

before you go replacing the cylinder and tearing the steering wheel cover off, check the battery and make sure its getting a good charge. I had the same problem, went and bought a new ignition switch thinking that was maybe the problem and installed it and the problem was still there. I had tested the battery prior to doing all this and it seemed to be fine but I tested it again and it was barely holding a charge. So the battery not having enough charge must have had some effect of not activating the solenoid and letting the key come out idk, but it fixed the problem when I replaced the battery.

Of course if your car is starting fine then this probably isn't the problem but give it a try.