Ignition interlock stuck

[MisterH]

Hey There folks-

Just had this issue pop up this morning in the '99 QX4: ignition key goes in fine but won't turn any direction, gear shift stuck and steering wheel can't be turned. If memory serves correctly, isn't there some kind of relay that operates a mechanical pawl that controls everything? I eventually got the key to turn once I released the parking brake and rocked the vehicle back and forth. Went on an errand and when I got to my destination I turned the car off, removed the key then put it back in and it turned normally. After was done with my errand I came back and everything was locked up again.

[MisterH]

As part of the diagnosis, I do hear the ASCD relay click when I depress the brake pedal

[VStar650CL]

The relay you're hearing probably isn't a relay, it's probably the shift lock solenoid which is grounded in the Park position and powered by the brake lamp circuit. There's a cable which connects the key cylinder to the shifter, that's most likely where your issue is. See AT-220 thru AT-226 to see how the whole thing works and how to adjust the interlock cable:
https://www.nicoclub.com/service-manual ... 9%2FAT.pdf

[MisterH]

The relay you're hearing probably isn't a relay, it's probably the shift lock solenoid which is grounded in the Park position and powered by the brake lamp circuit. There's a cable which connects the key cylinder to the shifter, that's most likely where your issue is. See AT-220 thru AT-226 to see how the whole thing works and how to adjust the interlock cable:
https://www.nicoclub.com/service-manual ... 9%2FAT.pdf

Many thanks for your help!

[VStar650CL]

[MisterH]

In case anyone wonders about the outcome on this issue, I elected to simply disable the interlock. The solenoid was dead, but I couldn't justify spending a minimum of $150 on a replacement part for a function that's non-essential.