HELP! Can't get key out of ignition
 

Hi,

I just started my car after about it's been sitting there for a month. It started fine and everything worked. But after I turned it off, I cant get the key out of the ignition! I tried shifting it back and forth into PARK (its an automatic) but it still doesnt work. Help! My cars just sitting in the building parking lot with the key still in it. Please reply ASAP. Thanks.

Re: HELP! Can't get key out of ignition
 

I had the same problem a while back and had to leave my car at a car wash overnight. Turned out the problem was the steering wheel was locked and all I had to do was turn the steering wheel a few inches and the keys came right out. Hope thats all it is in your case too.

I tried that too but it didn't help. The steering wheel isnt locked it still moves around freely. Damn the stupid key, don't know what to do now :confused:

sounds stupid, but make sure you put the car in park. at school last year, i was in a hurry and just turned off the car while it was in drive...and the key didnt come out.

A) get a flat screw driver and if you can get your manual. pry the plastic part out and there is a button there that you can press. all the details are in your manual.

B) if you hadn't noticed, when you take out your key, you need to press that black button to get it past the lock.

I had the same problem with my max, there is a switch in the shifter that broke from someone trying to pull the car out of park. It's on the shifter stalk under the cover, when you push the release a rod coming out of the side moves(dont remember if its up or down, been awhile) check that. Or take the cover off the steering colum and there is a solenoid that controlls the key release, disconnect it for a quick fix..

Oh yeah forgot to mention that if you disconnect the key release solenoid, your shifter lock does'nt work. The wire connector for the solenoid is brown and should be on the bottom of the colum wrapped in foam.

The ring that gos around the key hole comes off pretty easily. Take it off and above the release button inside the hole is a small red switch hit that switch and pull on the key.

Steve