Does anyone know why i can remove my ignition key when the car is running? I've seen this in many older GM cars. I can't turn the ignition on w/o the key, thank god, but i can pull it out in any position it'* in? I don't really care i'm just curious.

Mine used to do that too. It'* because the key is worn fairly well. With our cars' age, it isn't a surprise that the keys are worn. Don't worry about it, as long as they don't fall out, you aren't in trouble. If they start falling out, I would replace the lock cylinder.


-justin

my old GMC 3/4 ton did that.

Another option, if you've still got those factory key knockouts with the codes on them, is to go to the dealer and have them make up a new key for you. The new key would have nice fresh bumps and sharp edges, and I'll bet that would fix the problem for much cheaper than a whole new ignition switch.

Wouldn't work. It'* not just the key that is worn, but also the ignition lock cylinder. Getting a new key would help, but you are just asking for trouble with the age of our lock cylinders. Mine locked up, and I don't know about you, but i'd rather be safe than sorry. Not to mention a new lock cylinder is $15, no stealership is going to charge less than $15 to make that key. If they do, the pricing will probably be about the same.


-justin

My dealer made me one to code for free/
Totally fixed my sticking lock problem.

I kinda doubt that a dealership would charge less for an entire lock cylinder than for the key alone. And I still maintain that it would work. Keys are made of brass, while the cylinder is steel, or some harder metal. The bulk of the wear is in the key. GM keys, especially, are prone to excessive wear. I would know, I duplicated them every day back when I worked at The Store. Even if the cylinder itself is worn, it should still function just fine with a brand new key.

Okay, well it'* all up to you, but because I had my lock cylinder fail due to it siezing, I might be partial to replacing it. Not to mention I like to learn how to do stuff, so I do kinda go the extra mile in that department. I do still stand on my advice, but of course, there will always be people who disagree with me.


-justin