Having multiple issues that started with the key would not turn off the vehicle?

J-SWAZZLE

MEMBER
2002 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
165,000 MILES

When turning the key over, the car started but the key wouldn't turn off the vehicle. I also couldn't move the transmission and no gauges worked. To solve that, I disconnected the battery and basically wiggled the ignition and key until it turned back over, and I got the key out. I reconnected the battery, then I put the key back in to the ACC mode and set the car in neutral and started it. The car started with no issues but only the gas gauge worked (no MPH, RPM or temperature), and one headlight worked, and the key was stuck once again. However, since the car was running, I felt it would be better to check it again in my driveway. While driving home, the car shut off randomly (no power wheel or brakes and no acceleration) but it turned back on once I was able to pull over and put it back in neutral and crank it. When I got home I disconnected the battery once again and managed to get the key unstuck but this time I paid more attention to how to get the key unstuck and pull it out, I had to push it all the way over in the crank position and pull on the key while slowly turning it to the off position.

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,909 POSTS

It sounds like the ignition switch is worn out, here is how to replace the unit and I would get the lock and key from the dealer so they can preprogram it for you. Also, it sounds like the BCM is going out but to be sure we need to do a CAN scan; you can get a CAN scanner (Controller Area Network) which will work on most cars from Amazon.

here is a video to show you how:

https://youtu.be/u-4syLc-ifQ

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

Here is one for about $99.00 if you need it:

https://amzn.to/3ZixY4v

You can get a preprogrammed BCM by searching Google or Ebay. Here is the location and how to replace it. You can also have a mobile locksmith come out to do the job/program the ignition key. It should cost about $250.00. Check out the images (below). Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem so we can see what's going on.

Images (Click to make bigger)