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Key will not release from ignition

Discussion in '3rd Gen 4Runners (1996-2002)' started by Ramster2325, Oct 1, 2021.

  1. Oct 1, 2021 at 1:55 PM
    #1
    Ramster2325

    Ramster2325 [OP] New Member

    Joined:
    Oct 1, 2021
    Member:
    #23612
    Messages:
    2
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Robert
    Vehicle:
    1999 Toyota 4runner Limited
    None. All Original.
    I recently replaced bushings on the shifter handle since it was very loose goosy and now all is good. My delima now is that the key will not release out of the ignition. It only turns to the point just before release and no further. I pulled the cover back off that houses the shifter and disconnected the connector that has a big "B" stamped on it and the key releases as it should. I tried it again connected and it won't release. Same with the battery cables. Has anyone dealt with this before? Any helpful advice will definitely be appreciated. Thanks!
     
  2. Oct 1, 2021 at 3:12 PM
    #2
    Moon Landing

    Moon Landing AFFTC 1967/68 Eddies Air Patch

    Joined:
    Feb 4, 2021
    Member:
    #19563
    Messages:
    2,170
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Jer
    La Quinta, Ca. AKA "The Skillet"
    Vehicle:
    Moon Rock 4Runner
    Nam 68/69
    From what I can find it appears the key release (make or break switch) is not being contacted once you put the truck in park(so it thinks you've turned the truck off while still in gear) which by design, prevents the key from being removed. It's advised you push and hold the shift lever firmly forward while in park(in an attempt to make contact) doing so should releases the key. If it doesn't? Other recommendations are made, but nothing that involves further action concerning the make and break switch.

    Hope this helps a little.
     
    Last edited: Oct 1, 2021
    Ramster2325[OP] and 7385 like this.
  3. Oct 1, 2021 at 5:30 PM
    #3
    Ramster2325

    Ramster2325 [OP] New Member

    Joined:
    Oct 1, 2021
    Member:
    #23612
    Messages:
    2
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Robert
    Vehicle:
    1999 Toyota 4runner Limited
    None. All Original.
    Thank you, that's probably what it is according to what you shared in your reply. Much appreciation Sir!
     
  4. Oct 1, 2021 at 5:41 PM
    #4
    Moon Landing

    Moon Landing AFFTC 1967/68 Eddies Air Patch

    Joined:
    Feb 4, 2021
    Member:
    #19563
    Messages:
    2,170
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Jer
    La Quinta, Ca. AKA "The Skillet"
    Vehicle:
    Moon Rock 4Runner
    Nam 68/69
    My pleasure. Give us an update once corrected. It'll help others in the future.
     
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