97 Bonneville SSEi Key Stuck in Ignition

[Techpapa]

Key will not rotate to 'Lock'; stays in 'Off' position. Otherwise, key rotates freely to 'On' and 'Start'. I have read in other forums that there is a connection between the button on the shift knob and an actuator in the steering column near the key. With the key in the 'On' position, when I press the button on the shifter, I can hear a click at the key inside the steering column. With Gran Prix that have this problem, it is easy to access the steering column to replace parts. But the Bonnie factory service manual says you must remove the steering wheel and disassemble the column to get in there! I've tried moving the steering wheel 90 degrees before turning the car off. I've also repeatedly moved the shifter from 'Drive' to 'Park' with no success. Also, I want to FIX the problem, not just remove the key. Thanks!

[1oldman]

Hi! You've got a tough one. I have personally only been involved with something like this twice. First thing I'd check is the spring in the shift selector handle that operates the button on the shift handle. That's exactly what happened to my '92 SSE. - BC

EDIT: you have to pull the clip out of the "front" of the shifter handle at it's base (closest to the dash), then pull the shifter handle straight up (IIRC - it's been a while). Then you'll have to pull the selector knob out of the handle. I've forgotten the rest, but (IIRC) if you shake the handle you can hear the spring rattle if it's broken. Like I said, it's been a while.

Hopefully someone more knowledgeable will post. - BC

[98SSE]

My key sticks every now and then and was stuck in my ignition for quite some time. Possible causes that I've read could be:

Rod inside column/tumbler bending not fully releasing key
Brake Interlock Solenoid
Rubber boot on shifter knob not fully releasing
cable from shifter binding

So far I've did all 3 but the last, no dice. It has actually gotten better with time so I haven't worried to much about it. I do have a new tumbler waiting in case something happens. Good luck

[erickaltman]

Had this problem with mine over winter, all i did was use the tilt adjuster and move the steering wheel up a a little bit and has worked fine ever since. Could just be good luck