ignition key won't release
Thread Starter
Three Wheelin'
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,421
Likes: 25
From: north vancouver
ignition key won't release
When I shut the car down the key often times will only pull out after some jiggling, at which point the key comes out easy peasy.
I have read the threads on switch replacement, but it seems to me that this is not the part of the mechanism that's grabbing hold of my key.
That is to say, the ignition switch that is easily replaced is the plastic electrical part, but it's the mechanical lock mechanism that I would think is my problem.
Anyone have any wisdom?
I have read the threads on switch replacement, but it seems to me that this is not the part of the mechanism that's grabbing hold of my key.
That is to say, the ignition switch that is easily replaced is the plastic electrical part, but it's the mechanical lock mechanism that I would think is my problem.
Anyone have any wisdom?
Pro
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 580
Likes: 2
From: San Diego, CA
Could be the switch itself going bad, but I had it happen when my steering wheel had some tension on it (I had just set the car down after jacking it up), and I had to turn the wheel by hand just a tad to release the force on the key switch. Just a thought.
Rennlist Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 5,544
Likes: 108
From: Northern NJ
About 95% of the time it is the cheesey plastic eletrical part, also used in Audi and VW that causes the key to stick. There is a small plastic part that breaks off internally jamming the rotation of the key. This keeps the key from returning completely. If you ignore it long enough you may start to experience strange electrical gremlins then failure and stranded.
Rennlist Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,675
Likes: 2
From: Stillwater, MN
I had this happen just once a few years ago. My "fix" that has lasted over 2 years now was just to put a very thin coating of WD40 on the key, insert it and twist a little. Then I removed the key and wiped of the excess (if any). It was amazing how just a minute amount of lube made the key work better and it stayed this way. Anyway, this is free, low risk, and quick.
Trending Topics
Pro
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 580
Likes: 2
From: San Diego, CA
So what's the part number or name of this magical plastic part that can be replaced? Or is it best to replace the whole lock mechanism? Either way, what do I ask for / look for when replacing it? Any DIY picts/instructions anywhere? I like preventative maintenance. 
Rennlist Stories
The Best Porsche Posts for Porsche Enthusiasts
Talos Takes Your 991 Porsche 911 GT3 to the Next Level for a Cool $1.13 Million
Verdad Gallardo
9 Vehicles Porsche Helped Engineer that Aren't Porsches
Verdad Gallardo
9 Features and Characteristics That Only Porsche People Understand
Verdad Gallardo
I've Written 500 Rennlist Articles: Here's How Porsche Has Changed Along the Way
Joe Kucinski
10 Most Unnecessary Porsches Ever Built (And Why We Love Them)
Verdad Gallardo
Porsche 911 GT3 S/C vs 718 Spyder RS: 10 Categories, One Winner
Joe Kucinski
This Builder Is Turning Heads With Its Slantnose 911 Creation
Verdad Gallardo
Porsche 911 GT3 Artisan Edition Pays Homage to Japanese Culture
Verdad Gallardo
Porsche Reveals Coupe Variant of the Electric Cayenne With a Fresh Look
Verdad Gallardo
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,032
Likes: 0
From: Phoenix, AZ
I am getting ready to do this also I think I have a bunch of gremlins etc. I would change switch first least expensive and seems to be most common problem.
http://www.autohausaz.com/search/pro...mber=4A0905849
Here is some instructions for the DIY.
http://www.gagme.com/greg/996/ignition.php
http://www.autohausaz.com/search/pro...mber=4A0905849
Here is some instructions for the DIY.
http://www.gagme.com/greg/996/ignition.php
Thread Starter
Three Wheelin'
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,421
Likes: 25
From: north vancouver
I had this happen just once a few years ago. My "fix" that has lasted over 2 years now was just to put a very thin coating of WD40 on the key, insert it and twist a little. Then I removed the key and wiped of the excess (if any). It was amazing how just a minute amount of lube made the key work better and it stayed this way. Anyway, this is free, low risk, and quick.
I suppose for $25 and a half hour effort I should try the switch eh. Just seems odd that it would be the electrical part that's *behind* the lock mechanism, but hey I've seen WAY crazier **** than that happen before.
Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
hope it can help you
A car repair manual is helpful if you need to gain access to particular vehicles technical repair information such as sensor locations, wiring diagrams, firing orders, component locations, vacuum diagrams and repair procedures. Repair manuals also include manufacturer specific testing and diagnostic procedure for troubleshooting: accessories, axles and drive train, body and chassis, brakes, climate control (heater and air conditioner ), fuel systems, electrical, emission systems, engine and engine cooling systems, exhaust systems, safety components such as seat belts and air bags, steering and suspension, service and maintenance, tires, rims, transmission service and much more.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 881
Likes: 18
From: MD
Do a search for this on Renntech. There are instructions for replacing the electric mechanism and it is the least expensive route, but may only be temporary. The alternative is replacing the entire lock for something like $600.
4th Gear
Joined: Oct 2022
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Ever fix the problem?
Hey buddy, I saw your question about the mechanics of the ignition. My car is having the same issue.
after driving I go to park up and when removing the key it’s like the mechanical part of the lock doesn’t close up so the car acts like the key is still in the ignition. The radio has to be manually turned off. And then the car won’t lock with the alarm so it’s a manual lock which leaves the passenger door unlocked!
did you manage to resolve the issue you had as it sounds very similar to what I’m experiencing just now???
thanks buddy, hope you are well and fingers crossed you reply!
after driving I go to park up and when removing the key it’s like the mechanical part of the lock doesn’t close up so the car acts like the key is still in the ignition. The radio has to be manually turned off. And then the car won’t lock with the alarm so it’s a manual lock which leaves the passenger door unlocked!
did you manage to resolve the issue you had as it sounds very similar to what I’m experiencing just now???
thanks buddy, hope you are well and fingers crossed you reply!
RL Community Team
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 6,284
Likes: 1,510
From: Ormond Beach, FL
Hey buddy, I saw your question about the mechanics of the ignition. My car is having the same issue.
after driving I go to park up and when removing the key it’s like the mechanical part of the lock doesn’t close up so the car acts like the key is still in the ignition. The radio has to be manually turned off. And then the car won’t lock with the alarm so it’s a manual lock which leaves the passenger door unlocked!
did you manage to resolve the issue you had as it sounds very similar to what I’m experiencing just now???
thanks buddy, hope you are well and fingers crossed you reply!
after driving I go to park up and when removing the key it’s like the mechanical part of the lock doesn’t close up so the car acts like the key is still in the ignition. The radio has to be manually turned off. And then the car won’t lock with the alarm so it’s a manual lock which leaves the passenger door unlocked!
did you manage to resolve the issue you had as it sounds very similar to what I’m experiencing just now???
thanks buddy, hope you are well and fingers crossed you reply!
