My key is getting stuck at times on my 96 4Runner. Not always, but twice in two weeks. Like when you leave it in drive and try to turn it off...but it is in park. No wiggling, etc..works. Just drive around a bit and then try again.

Is there a "test" that I can try to pinpoint the problem? I've heard shift lock, igntion switch, etc....I don't want to just throw parts on blindly. Any help would be great...thanks.

 

Squirt some WD-40 into the lock. It works for me.

Caution: if you spray too much in, it'll run down inside the steering colum and onto the floor. I leave a rag on the floormat for a few hours to catch any overflow.

 

Use some graphite in the lock mechanism.

 

Already tried the graphite spray...didn't do anything. More suggestions? Thanks everyone...

 

Go grind another key from the VIN.....problem solved.

 

Try this. When it gets stuck, disconnect the battery. Does the key release? I hope so. I may be able to help. I'm not sure what's going on but I'm actually having the same problem. I already replaced the ignition key cylinder as well as the ignition switch. The cylinder came with a new key but the problem persists. I just paid 15 bucks online for a solution from a certified tech. I'll share what he/she suggests.

 

I have this exact same problem.

Tried graphite, doesnt help. Tried 2 new keys, didnt help. Only when I disconnect the battery will the key come out. At least now I know not to switch out the cylinders. It looks like this is definitely an electrical issue.

 

The toyota tech called it an interlock problem. This is exactly what he asked.
"Is the P light showing when ignition switch is turned to ON?
When you are unable to remove the key, did the P light shows?"

I'm not sure what a "P" light is. Park maybe? I asked him to clarify. Stay tuned...

 

Today, I got another key cut from my VIN - the dealer said my old key looked pretty worn down. I drove it tonight and no issues...hopefully that took care of it.

This afternoon, when the key got stuck, pressing the brake down seemed to help it come "unstuck." No idea why. Just in case anyone else gets it stuck and can't get it out...hope that helps.

Will keep you posted if the new key does the trick....

 

Recap: start truck, drive, turn off and key is stuck in the ignition. Diconnecting the battery releases the key.
Possible resolution per an online pay-for-advice certified tech: bad Shift and Keylock Interlock Control Unit. It is a Electronic Control Unit located under the center console.

 

Here is a weird one..the other day, my key 'wanted' to get stuck. My wheels were turned - backed up, straightened them out and the key came out. Perhaps just coincidental, but if someone else is having trouble, try that.

 

I haven't had this problem, but it sounds like the shifter isn't "telling" the ignition that the truck is in park. The "shift and keylock interlock control unit" sounds to me like what you would call the device that communicates that info, so I would agree with the online tech. I would take apart the center console 1st to see if there is anything loose, etc. Maybe the control unit isn't plugged in all the way or something that doesn't require replacement.

 

x2 with brian, The shift selector switch on the tranny may need to be adjusted so when you're set it to park. The signal goes through to unlock the key cylinder. When it happens again, jiggle the shifter in park and see if will let go of the key.

 

This is what's been happenning to me lately. I have to push the shifter forward a smidge and it will let go of my key.
Is there some kind of adjustment that I should be looking for or what is the remedy for this?