2000 Buick Regal 2000 Buick Regal, Keys won't come out of the ignition and Security light is on
2000 Buick Regal, Keys won't come out of the ignition and Security light is on
What is your question?
Often times in the winter months, my keys don't come out of the ignition straight away. The car is in park, the engine shuts off and on fine, the steering wheel is not locked. This has been happening for about 2 years maybe. Usually if I keep the car running for a couple minutes after I park, the keys will come out. Also, pushing on the brakes as hard as I can (while stopped) and slamming it into park sometimes helps. But today that didn't happen, also my security light came on. I have never seen that light before. It's a high mileage vehicle but it runs fine. Any insight is appreciated!
What makes this problem better or worse?
It's worse in cold weather
How long has your 2000 Buick Regal had this problem?
RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 2000 Buick Regal. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.
You'll most likely need to have the shifter interlock mechanism cleaned and lubricated .. Coffee, soda or other sticky / viscous liquids can get spilled into the shifter cavity over time - these syrupy substances tend to become even more viscous in cold temperatures- this can impede shifter interlock from recognizing shifter is actually in the PARK position - then the 'ignition lock' cant be rotated back enough to release the key.
Recommend *hands-on* assistance from qualified personnel as this is a little more involved than most DIYer's are equipped to perform.
Good luck!
Considering the age of the vehicle - im pretty sure some of the mentioned substances have been spilled into the shifter cavity / console - it didn't have to be recently.
Considering the age of the vehicle - im pretty sure some of the mentioned substances have been spilled into the shifter cavity / console - it didn't have to be recently.