2000 automatic 4Runner, all of a sudden I can't remove my key after I've driven my truck. I have to cycle the key & hold the button in on the shifter, as well as shift it from Park to Reverse multiple times. However, I can put the key in & turn it to on, & it can be removed no problem. Part of me thinks this is my brake switch, part of me thinks it's something else. But if it's something else, I don't know what it could be other than the actual key cylinder. Any ideas?

This is going to be a long shot . This happened to my wife the one time she drove my 2000. She had to pick up from the shop for me. I had a code and they had reset it and did what needed to be done. When she got home, she called and said she could not get the key out. Did the park/reverse thing with no luck. I told her I would deal with it I got back home.

Being who she is, she googled the problem, found a youtube video with a guy and a Camary with the same issue and he put it second gear and then park and the key came out. So she did that and the key came out.

I have not had an issue since nor did I have the issue before, same set of keys .

Again, probably total fluke, but figured I would throw it out there.

[QUOTE=wslytoy;2971918]2000 automatic 4Runner, all of a sudden I can't remove my key after I've driven my truck. I have to cycle the key & hold the button in on the shifter, as well as shift it from Park to Reverse multiple times. However, I can put the key in & turn it to on, & it can be removed no problem. Part of me thinks this is my brake switch, part of me thinks it's something else. But if it's something else, I don't know what it could be other than the actual .

here is a link that discussed this issue.
key won't come out... switch or cylinder

Outstanding! Thank you. I actually searched & didn't find that. But that solved my issues.

I am glad you got it solved

Anyone know how to fix this? Been dealing with this for a few years now. I tightened the linkage to the transmission so it applies pressure to the shifter pushing it forwards a little more which helped, but can't seem to always get it to "click" into place all the time so I can take my key out.

Pull the lower dash portion off, pop the black trim piece off around the ignition & you'll see this little square solenoid held on by 2 Phillips head screws. Back the front screw out completely & the solenoid won't allow the key to lock in. Leave the other screw out some, but leave the solenoid attached & your problems should be solved. Some have reported that they can pull theirs out in any gear... Mine stays locked in outside of Park. Hope this helps you.