Pinpoint Test U: Unable To Remove The Key From The Ignition Lock Cylinder

Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems







Pinpoint Tests

Pinpoint Test U: Unable To Remove The Key From The Ignition Lock Cylinder

Refer to Wiring Diagram Set 37, Shift Interlock for schematic and connector information. Diagrams By Number

Normal Operation

On floor shift equipped vehicles, the ignition switch contains a key removal inhibit solenoid. The solenoid prevents the ignition lock cylinder to be turned to lock and the key removed any time the transmission selector lever is in any position except park. The inhibit solenoid receives voltage at all times from the Smart Junction Box (SJB) fuse 26 (10A). When the transmission selector lever is in any gear except park, the selector switch closes, which supplies ground to the solenoid.

On column shift equipped vehicles, the key removal inhibit is controlled by a mechanical linkage inside the steering column. The linkage prevents the ignition lock cylinder to be turned to lock and the key removed any time the transmission selector lever is in any position except park.

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

- Wiring, terminals or connectors
- Transmission selector lever
- Binding steering column components
- Ignition lock cylinder
- Ignition switch



PINPOINT TEST U: IGNITION KEY CANNOT BE RETURNED TO THE OFF POSITION

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U1 CHECK THE SHIFTER TYPE


- Observe the location of the automatic transmission shifter.
- Is the vehicle equipped with a floor shifter?

Yes
GO to U2.

No
GO to U3.

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U2 CHECK FOR AN ENERGIZED KEY REMOVAL INHIBIT SOLENOID


- Remove the SJB fuse 26 (10A).
- Attempt to turn the ignition key to the run position and then back to the lock position and remove the key.
- Does the ignition lock cylinder turn to the lock position and can the key be removed?

Yes
REFER to Steering Column to continue diagnosis of the key removal inhibit solenoid system.

No
GO to U3.

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U3 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER FOR BINDING


- Remove the ignition lock cylinder. Refer to Ignition Lock Cylinder - Functional Ignition Lock Cylinder - Functional.
- Rotate the ignition lock cylinder through all positions using the key.
- Does the ignition lock cylinder freely rotate through all positions and can the key be removed from the lock cylinder?

Yes
REFER to Steering Column to continue diagnosis of the steering column for any binding steering column components or ignition switch.

No
INSTALL a new ignition lock cylinder. REFER to Ignition Lock Cylinder - Functional Ignition Lock Cylinder - Functional. TEST the system for normal operation.

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