Hi guys. I have a 2004 SCREW. The last several days the key keeps getting stuck in the ignition switch. It physically will not turn all the way to the off position when in park. It seems hit and miss, and sometimes I can drive it around a min or so, and try again and it will come out. Sometimes it will not. Does anyone have any ideas?

Thanks,
mikebaby

 

Which shifter do you have? It may not be going all the way into the park position by the sounds of it.

 

I have a console shifter. I have tried slamming into park as hard as I can....no change.

mikebaby

 

Have you tried turning the steering wheel back and forth to take the pressure off the locking pin?

 

I have. I am at a complete loss on this one.

mikebaby

 

Might need a new lock cylinder. Sounds like the same thing I had happen with my old '92 F-150.

 

Try lubing the cylinder with lock lubricant, do NOT use WD40 or the like.

The other possibility is a bad switch in the floor shifter assembly that's keeping the key removal inhibit solenoid from operating correctly.

 

Try finding some Tri Flow Spray and use the plastic spray nossel that comes with it.
And spray some in the ign. switch keyhole.
Pay attention to where the switch is lined up at. and when you try to take the key back out.
It has to be lined up at the exact same place.
you want to be careful with the switch.
If non of this works you may want to go to the dealer.

Hope you never use your key to cut open a box or prise anything with your key too.
Cause it can damage it.

 

Tri Flow will work, or I like Milcomm Lock Saver. Yes, DO NOT use the WD-40!!!!!

Do not use the key as a pick, cutter, pryer, etc, as this will cause all kinds of issues.

It sounds like it's not the lock, it sounds like there is something not lining up.

 

After 42 yrs as a Locksmith, and buying from the biggest locksmith houses in Houston.
Over 25 yrs ago. I got them to stocking Tri Flow.
I've used it in High security Medeco Locks. High security Assa, Primus locks.
Used it in High security Mercedes & BMW locks and lexus locks.
Used it in motorcycle cables. Padlocks.
It has done me very well.

 

my key began sticking/dragging in the ignition lock of my 2000 f150 a couple of days ago and I was sure it was probably the cylinder lock. after checking around, I was advised to try another key. I still had an original second key(unused) and it worked perfectly again. the lock internals will definitely wear the keys down over time. I did purchase an additional chipped key from a dealer for$79.00. (most dealers I checked wanted up to $150.00 for the key.)

 

Park position switch...or used key (but I doubt it's the key fault)

 

Find a can of Tri Flow Spray in a spray can. 4 oz can is great.
Put the plastic nossel in it and spray some in the keyhole of the locks once about every 6 months..
It will lub the lock and cylinders and cut down on the wear of the key.

 

I will, thanks.

 

Go to an auto locksmith.. It is very likely not a lubrication problem..
There is s small little dowel shaped piece of metal that's is in the tumbler that the locksmith will see and remove.. This piece wears down over use and can cause the key to catch and bind in the ignition.. I had the same problem and he removed this little piece and I was on my way.. I was told that this is common for these ignition locks..
All ignition safety features still work perfect.. I think it cost me $35