Ignition key stuck in the ignition switch

2000 CHEVROLET MALIBU
185,000 MILES • 3.1L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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JOHN CASEY2
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  • 2 POSTS
Won't turn to the off position. Replaced ignition switch with a new one! Still have the same problem! Can't remove the key! Will eventually run down the battery. With the battery charged, the car will start and be used as usual! just can't get the key out of the ignition switch! It could be the park lock cable? I can't find hardly any information on how to adjust or test or remove and replace this cable!
Sep 27, 2020 at 11:40 PM
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KASEKENNY
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  • 18,907 POSTS
Most likely this is the shift interlock. What that does is tell the ignition switch that the vehicle is in park and it is ok to release the key. Basically it thinks the vehicle is still in gear so the key wont come out.

Let's start with accessing the actuator and checking voltage when the vehicle is in park. You can try to manually push the actuator down to see if it makes better contact. Sometimes they just make poor contact and other times there is an actual wiring issue. However, I am sure your issue is with this.
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Sep 28, 2020 at 1:57 PM