Key is stuck in on position and shifter will not budge

JHALL5013

MEMBER
1997 HONDA CIVIC
1.6L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
197,000 MILES

Hello, my car key is currently stuck in the on position. I have tried all the listed options and is still stuck. My father had me remove the fuel pump fuse to turn the car off. After doing so the car has turned off. However, the shifter won't budge and power steering is inactive. Should I just go ahead and replace the ignition cylinder?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

I don't think the key cylinder is the problem, but instead, the park interlock is out of adjustment. I dug up a technical service bulletin that I want you to look through. It discusses the issue you are having and how to repair. All attached pictures correlate with these directions.

________________________________________

97-009

February 8, 2000

Applies To: 1996-00 Civic - All with Automatic Transmission

Key Cannot Be Removed From the Ignition Switch
(Supersedes 97-009, dated January 26, 1999)

SYMPTOM

The ignition switch sometimes will not turn to the LOCK (0) position, and the key cannot be removed.

PROBABLE CAUSE

The shift cable is out of adjustment, preventing the shift lever pin from engaging the key lock switch.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

Adjust the shift cable.

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

In warranty:
The normal warranty applies.

Operation Number: 214305 Flat Rate Time: 0.5 hour Failed Part: P/N 54315-504-A81 H/C 4778643 Defect Code: 074 Contention Code: B99 Template ID: 97-009A Skill Level: Repair Technician

Out of warranty:
Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Service Manager or your Zone Office. You must request consideration, and get a decision, before starting work.

DIAGNOSIS

1. Make sure the shift lever is in Park.

2. Remove the center console.

Picture 1

3. Inspect the key lock switch. If the pin is not in the switch, jiggle the shift lever back and forth without taking it out of Park.

If the pin does not return and the key cannot be removed, continue with normal troubleshooting.

If the pin returns and the key can be removed, go to REPAIR PROCEDURE.

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Move the shift lever to Neutral.

Pic 2

2. Remove the lock pin from the shift cable adjuster.

ImageOpen In New TabZoom/Print
Picture 3

3. Check the alignment of the hole in the adjuster with the hole in the shift cable. The holes should exactly align.

4. Loosen the locknut on the adjuster. Turn the adjuster in or out until the holes exactly align. Torque the locknut to 7 N.M (5 lb-ft).

5. Reinstall the lock pin. If the lock pin binds as you install it, the shift cable is still out of adjustment.

6. Move the shift lever to all the gear positions. Make sure the shift lever position indicator shows each gear position.

7. Move the shift lever to Park. Make sure the key can be removed from the ignition switch.

8. Insert the key in the shift lock release slot, and make sure the shift lever releases.

9. Reinstall the center console.

___________________________________________

Check this and let me know what you find.

Joe

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