I have a 2003 Cadillac CTS. My bf left the key in the ignition w/o the car started. When i got in to drive away, the car wouldnt start, the Anti-Theft on dash was illuminated, and I couldnt get the key to the Off position or remove it from the ignition. I finally got it started, but had to manually release the key from the steering column. Once i got it started though, the headlights wouldnt work, nor would a/c, and windows wont roll up. Battery is 100%. Any suggestions? I just bought the car 2 days ago!
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At the time, I didn't know this was going to turn into such a big deal, so I didn't pay too much attention as to what I did to get it started. I think I got out of the car for a minute and came back inside, then went back out and it started. Either that, or I just turned the key several times until it started.
I wish I could be more positive about my answer, but this was 3 days ago, and as I mentioned, I didn't really pay much attention at the time. The more I think about it, the more I think I just tried it several times and after a few tries, it started. However, I still couldn't get the key out of the car and had to release it manually by hitting the release button on the steering column.
I hope this helps.
I posted the original question over the weekend. The problem is now fixed, and I wanted to share with everyone what I did.
Because my key wouldn't turn past the ACC position, my battery kept dieing. I took my battery out to charge it. I was frustrated, so it took me 2 days before I put the battery back in the car. Once I did, it started right up w/o the Anti-Theft light lit. The key came right out of the ignition when I turned it off. I can only assume disconnecting the batter for approx. 48 hours reset the anti-theft system and all is working fine now. However, I think it is time to replace the battery, and wonder if this wasn't the initial cause of my problems.
Hope this helps others!
Need to know what took place to start engine - jump start perhaps? Yes it matters.
At the time, I didn't know this was going to turn into such a big deal, so I didn't pay too much attention as to what I did to get it started. I think I got out of the car for a minute and came back inside, then went back out and it started. Either that, or I just turned the key several times until it started. I wish I could be more positive about my answer, but this was 3 days ago, and as I mentioned, I didn't really pay much attention at the time. The more I think about it, the more I think I just tried it several times and after a few tries, it started. However, I still couldn't get the key out of the car and had to release it manually by hitting the release button on the steering column. I hope this helps.