Key stuck in ignition
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 4,368
Likes: 9
From: Colorado
Key stuck in ignition
Nice day so I was going to break hibernation for the vette. Engine started just fine , I turned it off and the key is stuck. The cylinder just won't rotate to where I can remove it. Transmission in park, steering wheel unlocked and it just won't budge. Key is in good shape and this is the first time I've had this happen. I had the column apart a few years ago to tighten the dreaded 4 bolts that keep the column from "wiggling" but otherwise no issues. I really don't look forward to tearing the column down again even though I know the lock cylinder isn't all that bad to get to. Any ideas? I usually get to drive at least a little bit before she demands attention
1969/1971/2021 Coupes
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 2,212
Likes: 80
From: Port Huron MI
St. Jude Donor '09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15
Nice day so I was going to break hibernation for the vette. Engine started just fine , I turned it off and the key is stuck. The cylinder just won't rotate to where I can remove it. Transmission in park, steering wheel unlocked and it just won't budge. Key is in good shape and this is the first time I've had this happen. I had the column apart a few years ago to tighten the dreaded 4 bolts that keep the column from "wiggling" but otherwise no issues. I really don't look forward to tearing the column down again even though I know the lock cylinder isn't all that bad to get to. Any ideas? I usually get to drive at least a little bit before she demands attention
Terry
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,100
Likes: 801
From: Massapequa Park NY
My guess is Terry has correctly diagnosed the problem. Auto trans have the same design as the 4 speed cars for the reverse lockout system.
I believe the tab/lever has to be in the highest position for it to release the key from the ignition.
I believe the tab/lever has to be in the highest position for it to release the key from the ignition.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 2,365
Likes: 428
From: Cape Girardeau Missouri
Looks like tonak has a '79 so there's no shift interlock--just a little lever to push before the key will release.
Key stuck in ignition was one of the first things that happened. Replacing the cylinder is, it seems, the only solution. It's not too bad of a job. Unless you're certain it's in good shape be sure to order the insulator/retainer that installs over the snap clip. You don't have to remove the turn signal switch but you do have to move it out of the way.
Key stuck in ignition was one of the first things that happened. Replacing the cylinder is, it seems, the only solution. It's not too bad of a job. Unless you're certain it's in good shape be sure to order the insulator/retainer that installs over the snap clip. You don't have to remove the turn signal switch but you do have to move it out of the way.
