I was going to take it in to the dealer Monday anyway for an oil change so I'll see what they have to say about the key problem.
I can't believe my Wife is letting me drive the HHR! She doesn't want to sit around over there. The last time I drove it was back in September when she was in the Hospital.

 

Well, we had problems with the key 2 more times today so I guess when it hits, it hits big time! Now I find I can't take it in 'til Wednesday. Told the Wife if she gets to work tomorrow, and can't get the key out, to leave the key in it and take the remote with her. Then she can at least lock, and unlock, the car.

 

It will need a new shifter there is no adjustment. If it won't let the key turn off try turning the key to on foot on brake move shifter to 1st or low back to park then try key again

 

Well my car is back and now is fixed (hopefully). They replaced the shifter assembly, and so far all is well. Keeping my fingers crossed.