Chevrolet Impala key stuck in ignition due to broken wiring in shifter on Chevrolet Impala

Submitted by randy78 · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Chevrolet Impala owners report experiencing issues with their ignition key getting stuck due to broken wiring in the shifter. This problem can occur when the automatic transmission shifter fails or a wire near the shifter breaks, leading to the key becoming lodged in the ignition lock cylinder. While replacing the wiring connector to the shifter may resolve the shifter being stuck in park, it can also result in the key getting stuck in the ignition. Some owners have found that wiggling the key, even if the battery is dead, might help disengage the ignition lock and release the stuck key. If the key is stuck in the ACC mode and draining the battery, it could be linked to issues with the floor console wiring or the solenoid next to the ignition tumbler. In instances where the car fails to start and the key remains stuck, turning the key off and on several times may help resolve the starting issue and free the key.

13 people reported this problem
5 comments
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Chevrolet Impala vehicles with this problem

Average mileage: 85,667 miles
(60,000 - 107,000)

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