I've got a 09 PT Cruiser that seems to think the key is in the ignition even when it clearly isn't and the chime to go off when the doors open. This seems to cause the key fob's lock unlock buttons not to work I assume because it thinks the key is in the lock cylinder. I replaced the ignition switch and that didn't fix it. Even having to switch pulled off the actuator doesn't help. It looks to me like the car knows the key is inserted by the key pushing in a rod on the ignition actuator that presses a contact in the ignition switch. Is there another component that could also make the car think the key is inserted? If anyone has any ideas that could help it would be greatly appreciated.

 

Hello! This has happened to me as well, just started a couple days ago. I figured I'd take a shot here and ask you if you were able to resolve this problem. Even though the car currently starts and runs with no issues, I'm worried it could start to snowball and effect the steering or could it shut the car off while going down the road? I've got 235k miles on her and I'm nowhere ready to have her start falling apart!! Thanks in advance for any info you can provide!

Miranda

 

if the mechanical key cylinder is worn out it wont stop at its normal positions and it thinks the key is still in there. can you remove the key when the car is running ?

 

No, the key is still locked in there when the car is running and in accessory. I tried to remove it while the car was in park, reverse, neutral and drive. However, I've noticed 2 more things that may or may not be related. 1. The steering wheel will not lock. I've never made it habit to lock it so I don't know how new that issue is. I just know it has locked in the past with no issues. 2. My horn isn't working. I know it worked a few days ago so now that it's not makes me wonder if in fact it may be related somehow.

On a side note, the key has no resistance to turning in the ignition. It all feels smooth, haven't had to wiggle it or anything like that to turn it.

Thanks so much for responding and I look forward to hearing back from you!!

Miranda

 

I also just learned the fob is useless, like dead battery useless which I understand but I can't even lock the car up using the button on the door. I hit the button on the door and it'll unlock till the cows come home but nothing when I try to lock it.

 

If it is believed the key is in the cylinder, the keyfob and power lock are disabled. Keeps one from locking the keys in the car at least with the key in the ignition.

There are 3 parts to the steering column ignition setup. There is the ignition cylinder, ignition switch actuator pin assembly and the ignition switch. There are 2 possible suspects. The ignition switch actuator pin which has the ignition cylinder on one end and the ignition switch electrical contacts on the other. There is a rod that is pushed by the end of the key, goes through the actuator pin assembly and presses a contact in the ignition switch which detects key in. This rod may be gummed up and not sliding back (light spring load) or the contact in the ignition switch is not working properly.

Suggest removing the ignition switch from the left side of the steering column and view the motion of the rod as the key is inserted into the cylinder. If the rod moves, it is likely the ignition switch is faulty and needs to be replaced. If the rod does not move freely, the switch actuator pin assembly needs to be replaced. There are online videos that will help in this.