GRAND AM Ignition PROBLEM PLEASE HELP!

How can you start the engine if the key doesn't go into the off position?? Starting a running engine? Just wondering if we had the same problem because my '91 Grand Am didn't want to turn off for a while and eventually I just used some good old violence and that solved the problem. No problems since, and that was over 2 months ago. If your key still comes out, don't use violence right away, start with WD-40 and if that doesn't work (give a few minutes) resort to violence again. Focus on the key though, don't trash your dash.

I think he meant it won't go to the lock position, which is where it needs to be for the key to come out. Retsrating it is quite unecessary though. Wiggling jiggling both the key and the gearshift will more likely help. GW

A couple of years ago my GA also had the key stick in the ignition. Took a visit to the dealer and a switch replacement to fix. After x number of years keyswitches wear out.

The ford I had before the GA had the opposite problem, after 15 years or so the switch was so worn out that you could remove the key while the engine was running.

Neither condition is very safe.

Push the shifter extra hard into park:

Then if that doesn't work, the steering column right below the ignition key, turns. Grab it with your left hand, and turn it to the left slightly, and the key will go into the lock position.

Refinish King

It did for about a week (the gear shift, starting, and wiggling jiggling) but when it started taking more than 5 minutes it gets quite annoying.

Well then it's time to tear into the column and find out if the linkage to the gear switch is worn or whether you just need a new lock cylinder. GW

Agreed, that would be the real solution. But pulling with a pliers is cheaper and faster and I never had a problem. I spend enough time on my Grand Am, and am willing to take any shortcuts to keep it driving.