2003 H2 - Key stuck in ignition - Require Shifter

[Scooter911]

This is what the mechanic wrote:

Complaint:
Key not coming out of ignition

Correction:
Test the ignition lock cylinder operation
Remove the column covers and test
The ignition lock solenoid is INOP
Test the circuits - no power
Test the ignition lock control switch in the shifter
The switch is open
Needs a new shifter assembly

If you still think it's worth a try I'll definitely try adjusting the shift handle.

Kelly

[H2 Bill]

It's worth a try because it only takes a couple of minutes.

[Scooter911]

Okay. It's late here right now - so tomorrow I'll give it a try in the daylight.

Kelly

[timgco]

key stuck in ignition = dead battery issue. Did you look into this?

When the battery dies and you key is in there, it gets stuck in there until you jump the truck again and get it running. ...just a thought.

[Scooter911]

Well, the battery is only 4 months old (I replaced it because the old battery no longer held a charge). I replaced it at the dealer for the recommended one.

The truck started fine, and is charging okay. So I think that a dead battery can be ruled out. Unless the ignition solenoid is so sensitive to voltage that it is causing an issue. Today has been the first cold day here this fall.

However, the dealer is 20 minutes away - and the battery IS charging. So if it was a battery issue surely the battery would have charged up enough for the key to be removed.

Thanks for your input!

Kelly

[twr]

hi is he saying that it needs a shifter and the ignition lock sol?

[Scooter911]

I'm not a mechanic so I might have misunderstood. The Service Rep (not the mechanic) told me that my truck needed a shifter. He said that the shifter is not sending the signal to the ignition lock solenoid and that he would have to order one in at a cost of $297. So I'm assuming that it only needs a shifter.

I hope this helps.

Like I said earlier - if I can simply force the override switch ON, then life would be good until I can save up the $600+. I hate to put this on a credit card!

Kelly

[Scooter911]

@twr - I see that your from Ontario - I'm in Kingston.

Kelly

[HUMTECH]

A common problem is broken wires at the lock solenoid at the shifter assembly. Seen this more often than the shifter itself. Remove shifter handle and cupholder assembly pops out, its held in with clips, then inspect wiring at the connector on the right side of shifter assembly. If no broken wires are seen give them a firm tug as they could just be broken inside the insulation