Ignition key will not release from ignition

DAVIDROSSAUTO

MEMBER
2013 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR
105,000 MILES

Thanks in advance for any input.

My ignition key will not release from the ignition unless I take out the ignition fuse. I can start the vehicle and it will return to the first turn but will not return to the zero position to release.

Here’s some things I tried:

I unhooked the battery.
I removed shifter casing and it appears that the shifter shifts to park fine, I think?
I turned the steering wheel left and right.

Any thoughts? Thanks again!

3 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Here is a guide that will help with this issue:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ignition-switch-wont-turn-stuck

However, this is most likely the key release actuator. It is in the column and the part neutral switch tells the vehicle it is in park to release the key. If the park neutral is malfunctioning then the vehicle may think it is in neutral which is why it starts but will not release the key.

I would suggest checking for codes to see if there is a PNP code.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

I attached the info below.on this. Please let us know what happens with this. Thanks

Images (Click to make bigger)