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The dreaded key release button


Tungsten
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My key release button on the steering column stopped functioning correctly. Can anyone tell me what can be wrong? Where should I look for diagnostic information? Anything?

 

Here is some more detailed info:

If I unplug the battery, the button works right after turning the key to any position. The button also works right if I don't turn the key to the ON position with the battery plugged in. However if I try to take the key out after driving, it won't let me and I have to use that little switch inside to take the key out.

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This happened to my truck years ago (when I was a short bugger) and I believe it had something to do with the neutral safety switch...because I think it doesn't let you remove key unless it is in park...mine happened right around the time my gear selector wouldn't move from park, after which you now don't have to depress the brake to change gears...

 

 

It must be some sort of sensor, considering it goes away when you remove power

Edited by OldSlowReliable
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PROBLEM SOLVED

 

The key release button has an extra feature which senses that you are in PARK before it lets you yank the key. You can go and try to diagnose it but I think you will have to take the console apart (thing with arm rest). As a temporary (or a permanent if you are lazy) fix, you can easily disable the key release safety switch. Use the steps below to do just that.

 

1. Pry out the plastic ring around the key

2. Take the plastic housing off the steering column (6 screws hold it together)

3. Locate the white plastic housing behind the key lock cylinder, it should be obvious, it is the thing with the key release lever

4. Track the two wires that come from the housing, they should lead to a bundle of connectors

5. Locate a GREEN connector and unplug it, you will see the wires going to it

6. Test and re-assemble

 

Now can a mod pin this please! :D

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  • 4 years later...

Hi Guys, I recently became frustrated about having to wait for my turbo timer to stop the engine before I was able to remove the key. On removing the steering column housing you will see the little button in question. My fix for being able to remove the key whenever I turn it to the off position is to zip tie the little leaver about 10mm above the button to the "up" or "release" position. It worked effectively. No need to cut wires or replace ignition switches etc. Yes, you still need to push the button to remove the key but you don't have to wait for the engine to stop before doing this.

Very handy fix if you have a turbo timer!

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  • 4 months later...

even easier solution that took 20 seconds... didnt even have to take anything apart. removed the key and screwed a small pan head sheet metal screw into the the white plastic housing just below the emergency key release lever, preventing it from engaging. works like new now, the button even still works.

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