Key won't turn in my ignition?

Tiny
WHAZZSUP
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 CHEVROLET IMPALA
  • 1.2L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 175,000 MILES
My key won't turn in my ignition. I bought a used ignition switch but can't get the old one out because of the pin.
Tuesday, November 4th, 2025 AT 10:28 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
KRAKENAUTO
  • MECHANIC
  • 69 POSTS
Begin by ensuring that the vehicle's battery is functioning properly, as a dead battery can sometimes lock the switch. If the battery is fine, try applying pressure on the shifter and the steering wheel to see if you can release the switch. If the transmission shifter isn't fully in gear or if the cable is misadjusted, it may lock the key lock cylinder.

If it doesn't, you might need to disassemble the shifter cover to check if the cable can assist in releasing the key to the correct position.

Note once the old switch is out, connect the new one and perform a Passlock relearn procedure. It will not start if you don't.
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Wednesday, November 5th, 2025 AT 9:41 AM

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