AboutTed Ritter Expertise I will be able to answer almost all questions relating to the Toyota product line, if I don`t have the answer right away I will use the resources available to me to get an answer for you, it`s that simple. Warranty,special service campaigns,service bulletins etc,or just how to diagnose and repair problems, just ask.
Experience Toyota technician since 1979,expert in electrical systems,OBD systems,engine repair, driveability problems,EFI systems,ASE certified,Toyota master technician. Certified Hybrid Vehicle technician.
Question Parked the car and could not get the key out of the ignition. 96 Toyota
Camry, 139,000 miles, 4 cylinder. It starts up fine and drives fine, just can't
get the key out. Recently had work done on it at the dealership, transmission
flush and spark plugs replaced and one of the spark plug wires was replaced.
I originally took it in to have the water pump fixed because there was a leak
at some point between the reservoir and the water pump, causing the car to
overheat. We couldn't ever find a puddle, but for a while we had to add water
to the reservoir because it was always low. They said the water pump was
fine, and that they could not find a leak. The car does not overheat anymore
and we have not had to add water to the reservoir lately so I guess the
problem fixed itself...? I don't know if any of that has to do with why the key
will not come out of the ignition. Do you have any ideas? Thanks so much.
Answer There should be a shift interlock release button near the shifter in the console, remove the cover and push the button down, see if the key can then be turned and released, if so then there is apeoblem with the interlock system, also make sure the brake lights work, if they don't the brake light switch may be the problem, if it's none of those then the ignition lock cylinder will need to be replaced.
