My '07 HHR won't let me turn the key all the way off to the lock position or remove the key. Is this a common problem, and is it an easy fix? I'm pretty sure it has something to do with the shifter, because I can also shift into any gear while the var is off. Any help out there? Thanks, Izzy

 

try rocking the shift knob up and down while in park. Also make sure nothing is in the way of the shifter! That happened to me! This has been an issue though. Use the Search function to find out more.

 

you should definately not be able to shift at random, the system id designed to work only when brake is applied to shift out of park.

 

Thanks!, I've tried shifting it into gear then back into park, but that didn't work, I'll give the up and down motion a try.

 

that's what I thought, but it does let me shift while the car is off.

 

If the car is on and you press the brake pedal, can you hear a clicking sound from the shifter area? If you don'y hear that I would check a fuse maybe that powers that, maybe it's blown. also there maybe a problem with the shifter solenoid

 

Were you able to get the key out? There is a section in the owners manual about a release lever under the steering column!

 

It's a common problem. The shifter needs to be replaced.

 

There were some problems with the key stuck in the ignition. Mine was repaired by the dealer under warrenty.

 

Ditto, I had mine replaced under warranty 7 months after I brought her home