So I just had the common ignition key stuck issue with my 2010 HHR like everyone else had. So I'm following the owners manual to press the plunger and hold while turn the key to off. However, here's the hold up I have.



In this diagram, when it says "Remove the cover from the bottom of the steering column", is it actually saying I need to unscew the entire steering column cover off, or just the little "hatch" that's underneath (pictured below)? I assume it's the later.



In that case, how would I know which thing inside is the plunger? Is there a particular texture I need to find? I'm worried about screwing up the wiring, airbag, or whatever in there trying to find something I can't see.

I apologize if I can't read the diagram well enough, but it doesn't look "exactly" 100% what I see.

Note - It is an automatic.

 

Then it would be easier to see if you remove the bottom cover.

 

The drawing is pretty clear, just pop off the door. Then fish around until you feel something that can be pushed. I think it's that black spot in your pic, that's where the figure is aimed.

The only time my key ever got stuck was when my battery was dead.

Have you seen this fix?
https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-...uck-fix-52950/

 

Of course, but I did not see anything telling me what socket or any of that I'd need to remove the entire cover.

 

Seriously, that drawing looks to you like they removed the whole shroud? And the arrow is pointing at what? A small cover that is missing in the next drawing.

 

Ok fine, I'm a dumb ass.

Look, I'm at a loss okay? Nothing is pointing to the battery being drained and the fuses are fine. The normal procedure to get your key out when the steering lock kicks in doesn't fix it. I've been digging my finger in that hole for the past 20 minutes to feel for a plunger, I can't find it. I'm absolutely sorry that I don't have the mechanical parts of this assembly imprinted in my brain to just know okay?

 

But you can see the pictures and I did provide a link in post #3.

And I believe that a good search here may prove an extended warranty is in effect for the problem.

This is another link: https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/gm-r...14632-a-52498/

 

This is BS. Picture show jack ****. Where/what do you push. I have a 2006 and the little nipple is very easy to find and press but on the 2008 I'll be damn if I can figure out what anyone is talking about here and I cannot get the steering wheel unlocked for love or money.

 

Same steering column in all years and models of the HHR.

 

The question is, Why do you need to use the release button ?
If the battery is completely dead, then you can hook up jumper cables to another battery. This will give you power to remove the key.
If that doesn't work, then you should fix the problem. Ignition recall work been done ?