1999 Pontiac Grand Am Replacing Ignition Housing / cylinder

SIMIELK

MEMBER
1999 PONTIAC GRAND AM
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

My problem is the key is seized up and won't turn. The shifter is locked, but the steering wheel is not. I have removed the cover trim fro the radio which gives me some access to the ignition housing, and I have removed the two mounting screws - so the housing is loose, but everything is still hooked up and I cant pull it through the radio hole. Also, because the key won't turn, I am concerend I won't be able to remove the shifter cable due to it being locked in. I have a replacement housing in tact from a wreck parted out that appears perfect. It has a key that turns so I have the complete componet ready to install. My main question is how do I get the old housing out and release the shifter cable? Thanks in advance for your help!

3 Replies

BRIAN 1

MECHANIC
1,030 POSTS

Disconnect the negative battery cable.
Remove the left sound insulator.
Remove the ignition switch trim ring. Pry outward with a flat-bladed tool.
Remove the accessory trim plate.
Remove the upper steering column cover. Pry outward with a flat-bladed tool.
Remove the instrument cluster trim plate.
Remove the instrument panel cluster.

Remove the ignition switch bolts.
Disconnect the electrical connectors (4,5).
Disconnect the ignition lock cable (2) from the ignition switch (1).
Remove the ignition switch (1) from the vehicle.
Insert the key into the ignition switch (1) cylinder. Rotate the key to the RUN position.
Press the cylinder release plunger, located at the 4 o'clock position on the ignition switch (1).
Use the key in order to pull the cylinder from the ignition switch (1).

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

Connect the ignition lock cable to the ignition switch (4,5).
Install the ignition switch (1).
Connect the electrical connectors(2).
Install the ignition switch bolts.
Install the instrument panel cluster.
Install the instrument cluster trim plate.
Install the upper steering column cover. Ensure unit locks into place.
Install the accessory trim plate.
Install the ignition switch trim ring. Ensure unit locks into place.
Install the left sound insulator.
Connect the negative battery cable.
Reprogram the Body Control Module (BCM) .
Important: You must perform the BCM theft deterrent relearn procedure after replacement of the ignition switch Lock Cylinder. Refer to Password Learn Procedures in Body Control System. See: Computers and Control Systems Body Control Module Service and Repair.

sometimes you have to drill the ignition switch housing open to remove the cable.

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Sunday, February 7th, 2010 AT 9:35 AM

SIMIELK

MEMBER
2 POSTS

It would appear that I need to be able to turn the key to make these instructions work. I made it pretty clear the reason for changing out the ignition is because the key doesn't turn.

So I'm not to sure the answering tech really read my question, or understood why I needed the help.
I don't know what or where the left sound insulator is, or why it would be a factor. Also the instructions mention drilling the housing to get the shift cable off. What exactly am I drilling? A sledge hammer sounds like a better remedy. Any additional help would be appreciated.

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Tuesday, February 9th, 2010 AT 4:34 PM

BRIAN 1

MECHANIC
1,030 POSTS

I did read you question and did understand it,you have to drill out the side of the lock cylinder to remove the ignition cylinder to release the cable that goes from the shifter to the cylinder housing.here is where you have to drill,

drill out hole #1 and remove the ignition to release the cable and to replace the housing,if its easier for you just replace the cable and the ignition housing and cylinder.might be easier to replace as a set,I replaced 6 a week on these vehicles when they were new.post back if more help is needed.

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Tuesday, February 9th, 2010 AT 7:03 PM