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

Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems

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

Normal Operation

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 Body Control Module (BCM) fuse 28 (15A). When the transmission selector lever is in any gear except park, the selector switch closes, which supplies ground to the solenoid.

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

U1 CHECK FOR AN ENERGIZED KEY REMOVAL INHIBIT SOLENOID

- Remove the BCM (Body Control Module) fuse 28 (15A).

- 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 U2.

U2 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER FOR BINDING

- Remove the ignition lock cylinder. Refer to 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 . TEST the system for normal operation.