Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Ignition Key Inhibit
The ignition key cylinder inhibit feature prevents the ignition lock cylinder from being rotated to the OFF/LOCK position when the vehicle is not in PARK.
The key removal inhibit solenoid (part of the ignition switch) receives battery voltage at all times from the BCM fuse 18 (5A). The ground control circuit for the key removal inhibit solenoid is routed to a park detect switch within the brake shift interlock actuator.
The park detect switch routes the signal directly to ground to activate the ignition key inhibit solenoid.
When the selector lever is in PARK, the brake shift interlock actuator is open, preventing the solenoid from actuating. When the selector lever is moved out of PARK, the switch closes and completes the circuit to ground.
When the selector lever is in PARK, the key removal inhibit solenoid deactivates and allows the ignition lock cylinder to be turned to the OFF/LOCK position to remove the key.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.