Key/Ignition Removal Issues

[jelleyman94]

1st thread post, be nice.

I am a proud owner of a 96' red 4Runner SR5.
3.4 engine, 6 cylinder transmission, the usual..

My issue for over a year now is this:

My key won't come out of the engine when I turn the vehicle off.

This isn't an all the time issue, I used to think it was only when it was raining. And maybe there is a short somewhere that is caused by water, but more recently it's happened even when it's not raining.

I had my neutral/park sensor replaced last year. This did not solve my problem.

I also had a new key cut, this appeared to solve my problem for the short term.

I do not think the issue is the key cylinder because the key goes in the cylinder and starts the vehicle fine.

It's as if the vehicle does not recognize that the transmission is in the park position.

Any thoughts?

 

[MyHigh]

Research split wafers, see if any of the symptoms relate to your problem. If there is any doubt take the cylinder out and remove the split wafers and corresponding springs. It won't hurt anything and trust me it's still very hard to pick a lock, plus most thieves know not to even bother with these because it's impossible to pick split wafers so they move on.

 

[Arnezie]

Replace it, I bought this one for mine and it works great http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BITJ78I?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00

 

[MyHigh]

Yeah that's fine to replace it but then you have two set of keys. Just remove the cylinder and take it to a locksmith and for the same price or cheaper he will put new insides for you, and keep the same key code

 

[jcush87]

I had the same issue on my 96. I opened up the console under the gear shifter and unplugged the sensor. Free fix, but you could start the truck in gear, or pull it out while still in gear, or shift while the truck is off. Not as safe as replacing the sensor, but I know I won't ever be stuck leaving the key in the ignition which was more of a concern for me.