key stuck, dash lights on

1999 PONTIAC SUNFIRE
63,800 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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KONNIELEE
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  • 2 POSTS
My key got stuck in ignition. I purchased a new cylinder. New key came out, but dash lights still stayed on. so, I put the old cylinder back in. seems like it does not realize it is in park. maybe some other issue is behind my troubles. I have to disconnect battery every time, so the lights do not drain it.
Mar 15, 2018 at 4:35 PM
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MIKE H R
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first thought, check the wires on the bottom of the steering column see if there is a wire rubbing or disconnected. You say you changed the cylinder. With the key being hard to get out, I wonder if the ignition switch itself could be bad.
Mar 16, 2018 at 7:13 AM
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KONNIELEE
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what is the difference between between the cylinder and the switch?
Mar 16, 2018 at 3:31 PM
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MIKE H R
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The switch is the actual switch to start the engine and the cylinder is where the key goes.
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Mar 17, 2018 at 6:38 AM
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MIKE H R
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the top one is of the ignition switch itself, where all the wires come in and when you turn the key it activates different things. The bottom one is of the key cylinder. it goes into the switch and works by turning the tumbler inside to get the car to run. These are just examples and may not be for your car.
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Mar 17, 2018 at 6:41 AM