2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Key Sticking in Ignition

Tiny
MARKE52896
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 119,000 MILES
I have a 2002 Grand Prix and recently the key has been sticking in the ignition. I can get the key out using the access hole under the steering column but what is the most common cause of this. I read what lloks like two different problems one a Park Lock Solenoid which I'm told requires replacing the entire shifter and the other a problem with the key cylinder. What should I try first?
Monday, January 19th, 2009 AT 8:24 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
MMPRINCE4000
  • MECHANIC
  • 8,548 POSTS
I would suspect the cylinder lock. If park/lock solenoid you would not be able to turn key to lock position to remove. If the key moves to all positions, but you just cannot pull it out, then the key cylinder is most likely the culprit.

You can take the car to a locksmith, they can determine if the key cylinder is the problem.
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Monday, January 19th, 2009 AT 9:13 AM
Tiny
MARKE52896
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
The key will turn to every position except the lock position unless I use the access hole which will turn it back one position and allo the key to release. Makes me think park/lock solenoid.
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Monday, January 19th, 2009 AT 10:46 AM
Tiny
MMPRINCE4000
  • MECHANIC
  • 8,548 POSTS
Sounds logical. The solenoid or cable is out of adjustment, making the cylinder thnk you are not in park.

I would remove console and check cable and power to solenoid.
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Tuesday, January 20th, 2009 AT 7:41 AM

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