Maybe im mixing it up with starting the car, but i suppose its worth a shot.

 

any one elses input is greatly appreciated.

 

Sorry I can't be of much help but if you absolutely can't wiggle and jiggle the key out of the ignition. You might just want to replace it and smash your key out of the lock cylinder with a mallet or something. (After you've removed it of course.) The ignition lock cylinder is on the dash. so that makes it pretty easy to DIY as compared to ones on the steering shaft. If you do this just make sure you read up on replacing the ignition lock cylinder. Because I believe you have to have new keys made to the old keys Ohm. resistance specs. To avoid PASSLOCK security issues. I may be wrong because I'm not familiar with 03 Montes. most hardware stores can make you the keys you'd need.

You might be able to get away with not replacing it at all. Which would save you some headaches and cash. Maybe when/if you get it apart you could find what's causing it to bind or get stuck in the on position. To determine if it can be salvaged.

I mention the lock cylinder because it's cheaper than shifting linkage to replace. You could end up spending more time and money if that doesn't fix it. Not to mention getting new keys and lock cylinder stuck. might as well follow ohara's advice and lube the linkage as well. WD40 or grease doesn't cost much. And it would take a novice about an hour. Buy a Chiltons repair manual it should tell you how to service it or at least how to get to it or remove it.

 

Hey all, I just bought my 2004 Monte Carlo SS on Wednesday and had the same issue. After almost freaking out I let the car sit for a bit, jiggled the wheel, messed with the shifter and then it came right out, no problems since.

I know it hasn't sat for 2 years, but I know its been sitting for awhile because the handling was a little tight on the first five minutes of the ride home.

 

Storm welcome to the forum!!

 

Much appreciated.