Ignition help!

Really need some help here! 2003 3.4L Auto, Access Cab, 4x4.
Problem: Can't get the key out of the ignition unless battery is disconnected. The key will turn to the accessory position, but removal is impossible unless the battery is disconnected. What sort of sorcery am I dealing with here?

 

From your description of the problem, it appears as though you need the key(s) reprogrammed/re-prom'd to your vehicle. More than likely the dealer will have to perform this duty "or" you can call a specialized vehicle lock smith, they can also perform this task (that is if they are knowledgeable enough?).

Try this, disconnect the battery to remove your regular key, then reconnect the battery and try your other spare key(s) and see if does the same thing?

If it does than more than likely the vehicle needs new keys and or reprogammed keys.

If it does not, then just your regular usage key needs to be reprogrammed or replaced?

Something simular like this happened to me sometime back where my original key that I always used, would start my Tacoma but would not unlock my Tacoma?

Go figure, right? So I tried my spare key and well it would start and open my Tacoma.

Luckily my neighbor is a vehicle lock smith and told me that my original key that I used was worn down from constant usage and that I needed another one. Told me that yes I could go to Walmart, etc. and have another made and that it would definitely open my vehicle but would not be able to start it since it would not be programmed to.

My neighbor was able to make and reprogram an exact duplicate key that would not only open but start my vehicle and well of course he did not charge me for it!

Good Luck on getting your issue resolved.

 

I appreciate your response Tex-Tac, but this is a 2003 with a straight metal key, so I don't think it is a programming problem. Is there a sensor/switch in the shifter that tells the ignition that it is in Park, and allows you to take the key out? I have tried it in Park and neutral with no luck. Also worth mentioning is this truck has 450,000 miles on it so things are starting to wear out that ordinarily wouldn't be a problem.

 

Well then just maybe you can find your answer here? https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/key-stuck-in-ignition.122964/

 

Could be something in the shift lock system or park neutral switch.

 

He's working on a first gen.

 

Yea, I realize that but in that link that I posted, in post # 4 the individual recalls this happening with their 01 Tacoma (which is a 1st Gen.)

I also strongly encourage that the original poster read through the whole thread.

 

the shift lock mechanism in the center console is so filled with junk that the it wont release... it isnt that difficult to take the console covers off and see what is going on and clean it out.