Can anyone help?

[eightyseven]

So I've had this problem ever since I bought my car about a month ago. It's a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP Special Edition. I start the car just fine, drive around and all, but then when I go to shut it off, the key doesn't turn all the way back to the "LOCK" position. It gets stuck in the "OFF" position. I have to turn the key to the "RUN" position and try to get it to the "LOCK" position. It usually takes me 7-8 tries for it to go back to the desired position. Sometimes I'll start the car up, put it in reverse and then right back into park. Sometimes that helps, sometimes not. I'm not smart at all when it comes to technical stuff. Anyone have this problem, heard of this problem, or know how to fix this problem? This isn't a major problem, just a nuisance, especially at night when the car is on the lights turn on, so my lights are going on and off for my neighbors to see. Plus I don't want to leave the key in the ignition.

 

[pman64]

My 02' just started doin the same thing. But where I live, I can leave the keys in and nobody will bother it. Usually leave em in the car anyway. The problem is in your ignition lock tumbler(where the key goes in). Only 2 ways to fix it.
1. Have the tumbler assy replaced, which you usually have to replace the whole assy which means new keys, etc.

2. Take the tumbler assy apart and remove the tumblers from the lock assy. There's probally one that has broke and is jamming up the assy.:th_nervous:

Hope this helps.:th_tree:

 

[noreasonwhyy]

you can depress the plunger on the solenoid to remove your key. the problem is with the ignition switch somewhere.

remedy: http://www.grandprixforums.net/having-ignition-switch-troubles-37820.html

 

[eightyseven]

Thanks I'll try that. One more thing. The "low collant" light is on. Previous owner said it was just a sensor and got me a replacement sensor from NAPA. I changed the coolant anyways because it was old, but still got the light on. Where is the old sensor located on the car so I can replace it with the new one? Any tips on what to do, or is it just take out the old and put in the new?

 

[pman64]

take out the old and put in the new. Its located on the radiator along the passenger side. Should be just above or below the top tranny line on the end.