Cannot get my key to go to the lock position to release the key

Tiny
CONNIE ARNOLD POTTER
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 CHEVROLET EQUINOX
  • 3.4L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 160,000 MILES
It happens many times that I can't get the key to turn to the lock position to release the key from the ignition. I just had a new ignition lock switch replaced and also had a new key made and it still happens.
Monday, March 25th, 2019 AT 6:08 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
CONNIE ARNOLD POTTER
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
My mechanic said to make sure it's in park and it always is and we'll move the shifting lever back and forth and then to park again and it doesn't work all the time. It didn't happen to my mechanic today after he replaced the ignition lock cylinder and it's happening with my husband and I.
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Monday, March 25th, 2019 AT 6:13 PM
Tiny
JOETECHPRO
  • MECHANIC
  • 705 POSTS
Hey CONNIE ARNOLD POTTER,

I have attached the wiring diagram for the circuit you are having issues with.

The ignition barrel itself is not part of the key interlock. There is an ignition lock solenoid fitted behind the ignition switch.

I would advise the probable cause is the transmission range switch (PRNDL switch in the diagram)

If this switch is intermittently not contacting then shifting out of and back into park a few times will sometimes get it to sit in the right spot to make contact.

You could also have an issue with the bushing on the shift cable being worn and causing play in the actuation of the switch.

I have attached instructions on how to replace this switch.

When doing this I would check the bushing in the end of the shift cable and replace if worn.

To make sure it is the switch that is the issue you would have to test for voltage at the lock solenoid and the PRNDL switch when the fault is happening and see where the problem lies.

Hope that helps, let us know if you have any further questions.

Regards, Joe
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Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 AT 9:37 AM
Tiny
CONNIE ARNOLD POTTER
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Hi Joe. Thank you very much for your reply with the very helpful information as I appreciate it very much! My mechanic is going to check the shifting cable, etc, next. Is there any way that I can forward this information to him through a face book message and if so, how do I do that? I don't know his email address. Please reply when you can. Thanks again, Connie Potter
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Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 AT 11:37 AM
Tiny
JOETECHPRO
  • MECHANIC
  • 705 POSTS
Hey CONNIE ARNOLD POTTER,

The easiest way for him to access this information is by giving him the link to this question thread. Copy the link from your browser address bar.

He will then be able to see the message and the attachment.

If he wants to create an account he can also ask questions if he needs any more information I am happy to help.

Regards, Joe
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Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 AT 12:37 PM
Tiny
CONNIE ARNOLD POTTER
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Okay Joe and thank you so much for everything as I appreciate it very much! Sincerely, Connie Potter
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Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 AT 1:13 PM
Tiny
JOETECHPRO
  • MECHANIC
  • 705 POSTS
Hey CONNIE ARNOLD POTTER,

No problem, glad to help.

Please do keep us updated on the repair. It acts as a reference for others with the same problem.

Best of luck.

Regards, Joe
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Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 AT 10:19 PM
Tiny
CONNIE ARNOLD POTTER
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Okay Joe, I'll definitely do that once I get this problem repaired so other people know also with helping them out. I really appreciate your free service with vehicle problems! You're so awesome with offering that service with your knowledge! Thank you very much! Connie Potter
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Wednesday, March 27th, 2019 AT 5:01 AM

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