Ignition key not coming out

Monkey WrenchMonkey Wrench Band Wagon
in Engine & Drivetrain
Hey all,

I'm new to my Civic Wagon, it's a 1990 with 155k on the ticker. It's the second wagon I've owned, but the other was before the internet (had an 84 or 86 model in highschool).

Anyway, I'm going through and fixing all the junk that has issues, so far new timing belt (that was PIA!), alternator and a few other doo-dads. But I'm getting stuck on the key issue.

After driving, the key does not want to come out of the ignition. The "P" light on the dash doesn't come on occasionally, and the key won't come out until the light decides to come on. It seems to be worse on cold mornings. I'm assuming it's a solenoid or something, the tranny seems to shift fine and goes into park.

Is this a common problem with a common fix? Any help would be appreciated, I got stuck at the gas station this morning...not fun!!!

Thanks!!!
Brad

Comments

  • Richard CheeseRichard Cheese Band Wagon
    yes, it is a common problem. here is how i fixed mine. http://untangible.com/2007/11/fixing-stuck-key-or-ignition-on-early.html
  • DREADPiRATEDREADPiRATE Band Wagon
    wiggle it out up and down with pressure pushing it in. when it comes out check to see if its bent. If it is try your best to straighten it and make a copy. after making a copy take some sand paper and give the key some wearing on its edges. that should solve the issue. if not you can try and change out the tumbler inside. I don't recommend you go that route though.
  • leWolfleWolf Senior Wagonist
    I'm pretty sure the auto wagons had an electronic sensor built into the shifter, you're going to have to dissasemble your center console and try to clean it all out. After 20 years it'll be pretty intense looking but hey it also could just be a worn out contact inside. Good luck though man.
  • Mr GMr G Wagonist
    leWolf wrote:
    I'm pretty sure the auto wagons had an electronic sensor built into the shifter, you're going to have to dissasemble your center console and try to clean it all out. After 20 years it'll be pretty intense looking but hey it also could just be a worn out contact inside. Good luck though man.

    Yup clean the contacts and adjust them, they just get beat up after a while.
  • Monkey WrenchMonkey Wrench Band Wagon
    Thanks for the help guys! Looks like I have a quick weekend project ahead. Glad to hear it's not a tranny problem.
  • The_HeadThe_Head familEE
    Try pushing the shifter all the way forward when trying to get the key out. My wifes wagon won't let ou turn the key all the way to off unless you are pushing up/forward on the shifter.
  • AintGotNoSolAintGotNoSol Wagonist
    Based on the "P" light issue, i would agree, it REALLY sounds like a bad contact on that shifter switch. Its a safety mechanism that keeps you from removing the key without the vehicle in Park. I suppose so you don't leave it in Neutral and walk away...
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