Key stuck - gearshift interlock?

[michaeljpatt]

My key won't come out of the ignition. It works fine -- turns on, off, etc. without sticking. One Ford mechanic said there is an interlock switch/relay between the gearshift and the ignition so unless the car is in Park, the key cannot be removed. He thinks this switch has gone bad. Has anyone had this same problem? I have seen hundreds of posts about a problem with the ignition cylinder, but nothing about what I seem to be experiencing. All suggestions welcome, and thanks in advance!

[phantom_smack]

anything ever been spilled into the shifter?

[michaeljpatt]

I don't know of anything spilled, but I am not the original owner so I really can't say.

[phantom_smack]

alot of times something is spilled and gums up the works.Remove the center console and inspect, clean as necessary.make sure there are no blown fuses.

[Dan.McCue]

Originally Posted by michaeljpatt

My key won't come out of the ignition. It works fine -- turns on, off, etc. without sticking. One Ford mechanic said there is an interlock switch/relay between the gearshift and the ignition so unless the car is in Park, the key cannot be removed. He thinks this switch has gone bad. Has anyone had this same problem? I have seen hundreds of posts about a problem with the ignition cylinder, but nothing about what I seem to be experiencing. All suggestions welcome, and thanks in advance!

I would say u needed a new lock cylinder. i have experienced this many times on fords.

[phantom_smack]

If it turns on off etc it will not need a new key and tumbler it is a problem with the interlock

[emgd75]

my 2000 focus has the same problem. if you want to release the key,you have to open the cover (you can't remove it because the of the key) and look for a big socket in the left side, just below the control of directional lights. Unplug it (the sound of warning key in the ignition is continuous) and remove the key. Don't forget plug the socket firmly (the car won't start) before attempting to start the car.
Maybe you want to consider temporarily removing the lower cover for easy access to the connector if the problem recurs