Ignition key stuck

[Highway Q45]

This is a X-post from the Q45 forums where I got some information. As the title says out of nowhere the factory Fashion Key decided to get stuck in the ignition. It is a 91 Q and the new key was cut by Nissan (after a theft) just last September. It feels like the steering wheel lock is not engaging at all which prevents the key release button from pushing in. The "park' position on the shift selector appears to work because you have to turn the key to shift from park. The car still starts and stops just fine but I hate locking the doors with a key in plain sight.

My question now:Am I chasing a mechanical or electrical problem? I've tried every combo of shift lever and steering wheel jiggle to get the key release to push in.

Thanks
Modified by Highway Q45 at 8:20 AM 12/20/2005

[elwesso]

let us know what happens when you try the thing i posted.....

[Highway Q45]

let us know what happens when you try the thing i posted.....

Will do! My concern is if I get the key out using the method you posted that it won't repeat as soon as I put the key back in. I was hoping maybe Dennis knew if the release/lock was electro-mechanical or not. I assume that it has to receive some kind of signal from the 'Park' position switch at the console before the key will turn to the final 'off' position. The key does turn all the way off though making me suspect the key release button as the culprit.

[elwesso]

There is a small solenoid in there that as soon as you go into park will trip that solenoid letting you undo the key.. When you put it into park, and then let go of the shift knob, you should hear a click from the steering column area....

You may have to readjust your inhibitor switch...