Cannot remove key from ignition switch!

Asked by Pop218 Mar 14, 2014 at 07:27 AM about the 2000 Lincoln LS V8

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I turn my key to about 345 degrees normally to remove the key, but now it stops at 0
degrees and I cannot remove my key.  I check to make sure that the car is in Park, I
move the steering wheel and it is not locked, and I still cannot remove the key.  I lost my
remote for the car recently and cannot lock the car, because the key is still in the ignition
switch and I am afraid the alarm may go off.  What could cause this?  How can I remove
the key.  Will I have to get a new ignition switch?

103,855

Reelin68 answered 10 years ago

Try and turn your steering wheel left to right while jiggling the key. If that doesn't work, tap on the back of the key with a screw driver. Your tumblers may be stuck. You could also try some graphite in the ignition. If all of this is to no avail, you may have a malfunction with your shift mechanism.

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