Key is in ignition and car cannot be turned off, stuck in the full run position. Need to remove the fuel pump fuse to kill the car then disconect the neg battery cable as key cannot be turned at all. Depressing solenoid does not release key and the shift assembly micro switch is functioning properly. Anyone know the mechanics of the key cylinder?

 

there is a 1 inch square cover on bottom side of steering column,, pop it off, feel for a button to push in for a manuel release to turn key off untill you get it fixed correctly. This should work unless something is jammed up in the column itself.

 

Your cylinder is probably jammed. I had this happen exactly as you described on my 06. Even the dealer couldn't get the key out. They replaced the cylinder and cut a new key for me.

 

Thanks for the 2 replies. steven&cat: I have taken the cowling off the steering wheel and have direct access to the solenoid. Depressing the button does not work. I took the solenoid off the lock cylinder housing. The solenoid moves a small lever that locks the key in place when the car is in gear. My guess is the lever engages something internal to the switch cylinder and that is where my problem is. Looks like I'm replacing the lock cylinder.

 

Pulled key cylinder and reinserted it. Able to get 3 to 4 on off cycles before the cylinder locks up in the run position and am not able to shut the car off. Will replace the key cylinder and have new keys cut. Will post again after new cylinder is installed.

 

Bought a new cylinder (P/N: 2086-9121) and had a locksmith code it with existing key. Installed and works like a champ. The cylinder has been redesigned and appears less chance of hangup. May post pics of old cylinder Vs. new cylinder for info.

 

How difficult is replacing key cylinder? I have the problem of not being able to get key out of cylinder unless I push the button in column. Don't want to pay 91.00 to have them tell me whats the problem.

 

infotek ... just fyi ... I don't believe your issues of not being able to remove the key from the cylinder without depressing the button in the column is related to the key cylinder; I had this same issue and know of two others where the problem was related to the shifter mechanism (auto transmission) not communicating (signaling) that it was in the PARK position ... which prevented the key from being removed. Not sure if yours is the same issue ... but you may wish to research it a little further before replacing the cylinder. Good Luck.

 

infotek - lock cylinder is easy to replace. I do agree with gulfcoastal that the problem sounds like the micro-switch in the shifter mechanism (automatic trans). This has been a problem since 06 on the HHR based on what I have seen on the internet. The fact that you can depress the plunger and the key can be removed pretty much points to the switch. Try this link www.answerbag.com/q_view/416947.
I did find a good picture of the pin on the shifter not engaging the switch when in park. I'll see if I have that bookmarked and post later. Hope this helps.

 

His description of the problem sounds like an ignition cylinder to me also. Not sure on that part number though. Would that be a non OEM cylinder?