I have seen a post saying there is a release button under the steering column but I can't see it or know where it is. Can anyone help me out my car is an 09 SS manual.
I see posts tha say this only happens to autos not manuals.
Help me out if you have any info

Thanks
Adam

 

Ps I took the cover off the underside of the colum but no plunger.

 

OK, that being the case, your ignition lock cylinder is bad....time to head to the dealer sorry to say.

 

I am starting to think u r right bad lock cylinder. Could a weak/old battery be causing this?

 

Not too likely, but HHR's are known for acting "weird" with bad batteries, or batteries that are low on charge. How many miles do you have on it Adam? GM lock cylinders are made of "pot metal" and they do just plain wear out since the key is made of stouter material than what it operates.

If memory serves me right, pulling the relay in position #41 in the underhood fuse box will shut you down if the engine is running and the key is stuck.

 

I am at 45k. I just started to get quotes from dealers. 300 to 600.
I read a post where someone replaced the cylinder and got it keyed for 25 from the dealer. I would do that if I can find a cylinder in stock.

 

$300 is the average to do the job, the people who quoted you $600 are trying to screw you over, since this is a known GM Delta platform issue...some dealers see Dollar signs when you call in about it.

 

at my dealer right now. Looks like $300 PLUS tax. I will get the final word in about 2hours. This really blows.
this is totally unacceptible. This should be a recall. No reasion for this to happen on a car with 45K on it.

Shame of it is I really love the car but I see why iport cars have higher resale because of stuff like this.

 

$300 dollars a new lock cylinder and a wasted day my car now turns off and I can remove the key. 843de thanks for the all help and advice.

 

Glad you back on the road man, sorry it was a costly day.