1997 Chevy Blazer Ignition switch

1997 CHEVROLET BLAZER

140,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

MOUNTAINMAN09

MEMBER
4 POSTS

I bought a 1997 Chevy Blazer from my sister-in-law last week. I went to the store this afternoon and when I shut off the engine I could not remove the key. It moves back one click, but to pull the key out it has to click twice. My sister-in-law said it has been doing this on and off for about a year now. She said sometimes it stays stuck like that for a day or even two, and sometimes it's fine for weeks at a time. I'm afraid it is only going to get worse. My questions are: (1) Can I fix this problem myself, or do I have to have a new ignition switch installed by a mechanic. (2) Do I have to buy a factory switch from GM or do auto parts stores carry ignition switches. (3) About how much is the cost for the switch and about how much is the cost for labor. Thanks in advance and I appreciate any help you can provide.

Ernie H

Apr 16, 2009 at 11:45 AM

BUDDYCRAIGG

✓Experienced Mechanic
2,262 POSTS

move the transmission gear selector back and forth through the gears a few times.
You cant turn the key to the LOCK position until the selector is in park as a safety feature.

Some cars use a cable from the shifter, some are controlled electrically.
It will either need to be cleaned, adjusted or replaced.

Apr 16, 2009 at 1:17 PM

RICEBALL

MEMBER
12 POSTS

look carefull u have to see under steering small whole (close key) eazy to open & put the button that all u can do it good luck

Apr 26, 2009 at 4:27 PM

MOUNTAINMAN09

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Where is the hole? Directly under the steering wheel? Or is it right near the key? Is there a button I must push? Or is there a hole where I have to insert something to release the key? Please let me know. Thank you very much.

Ernie

Apr 30, 2009 at 10:45 PM

BMRFIXIT

✓Experienced Mechanic
19,053 POSTS

Like Buddy stated its not in park all the way
shifter cable need to be checked and adjusted as a 1st step

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need manual CHECK IT @
http://www.2carpros.com/kpages/auto_repair_manuals.htm

Apr 30, 2009 at 11:32 PM

RICEBALL

MEMBER
12 POSTS

near the key llittle bit of under the key do u see the whole should be close with rubber eazy to open and press button,,,,,u get a key back,,,,i get it same prb man

May 1, 2009 at 8:44 AM

MOUNTAINMAN09

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thanks riceball, you were right! There is a hole with a plastic "punch out" underneath the steering wheel. I popped it out and there is a button inside. I used a long key that I had on my key ring and pushed the button and the ignition turned and the key came right out! Thanks to everyone for all of your suggestions, I appreciate you all taking time out to help. But riceball, you had the answer to my problem pegged perfectly! Thanks soooo much! .... P.S. I wish I could leave you some feedback points but I don't have any yet.

Ernie

May 1, 2009 at 11:43 AM

BMRFIXIT

✓Experienced Mechanic
19,053 POSTS

Great, that gets the key out but does not fix the problem
make sure you use the E brake if you park your truck on a hill
until you decide to fix it
best of luck

May 1, 2009 at 12:40 PM

MOUNTAINMAN09

MEMBER
4 POSTS

I planned on using the E brake, actually I have been all along. At least I can get the key out so it won't be easily stolen until I can afford to have t fixed. Thanks again.

Ernie

May 1, 2009 at 1:29 PM

RICEBALL