2003 H2 - Key stuck in ignition - Require Shifter

[Scooter911]

Hi.

I just got back from the dealer and my 2003 Hummer requires a shifter. Earlier in the day I tired to remove the key from the ignition and it would not turn past ACC.

The shifter is going to cost me $297.00 Canadian, plus 3 hours labour @ $88 per hour.

The mechanic removed the lower part of the steering column and showed me where to 'press' the override in order to get my key out, until the shifter arrives some time next week.

Can someone tell me if I am able to simply 'fix' the override button in place so that I can put the bottom of my steering column back on? I was thinking of using a zap strap. And if so - is this fix okay for a month or so? Christmas is right around the corner and if I can put off spending $700 to fix my truck life would be good (I already paid the dealer $100 to diagnose the problem).

Any opinions would be helpful!

Kelly

[H2 Bill]

Try loosening the set screw on the back of the shifter handle and try adjusting it (the handle) up or down slightly then tighten and try it again.. Try playing with that a bit before paying for a new assembly.

[Scooter911]

This is what the mechanic wrote:

Complaint:
Key not coming out of ignition

Correction:
Test the ignition lock cylinder operation
Remove the column covers and test
The ignition lock solenoid is INOP
Test the circuits - no power
Test the ignition lock control switch in the shifter
The switch is open
Needs a new shifter assembly

If you still think it's worth a try I'll definitely try adjusting the shift handle.

Kelly

[H2 Bill]

It's worth a try because it only takes a couple of minutes.

[Scooter911]

Okay. It's late here right now - so tomorrow I'll give it a try in the daylight.

Kelly

[timgco]

key stuck in ignition = dead battery issue. Did you look into this?

When the battery dies and you key is in there, it gets stuck in there until you jump the truck again and get it running. ...just a thought.

[Scooter911]

Well, the battery is only 4 months old (I replaced it because the old battery no longer held a charge). I replaced it at the dealer for the recommended one.

The truck started fine, and is charging okay. So I think that a dead battery can be ruled out. Unless the ignition solenoid is so sensitive to voltage that it is causing an issue. Today has been the first cold day here this fall.

However, the dealer is 20 minutes away - and the battery IS charging. So if it was a battery issue surely the battery would have charged up enough for the key to be removed.

Thanks for your input!

Kelly

[vandy0090]

Originally Posted by Scooter911

Hi.

The shifter is going to cost me $297.00 Canadian, plus 3 hours labour @ $88 per hour.

on a side note im not sure if u looked it up but i did because im bored

Description MSRP Price Your Price
Shifter - 2003-07 - $133.01 $78.85

its pretty easy to R2 also. crazy what stealerships will charge for parts

if my math is right its about 84 bucks canada?

[Scooter911]

Man.... I didn't need to see that! lol

I wish I was more mechanically inclined! I have the ambition, I just don't have the tools or a decent garage. I live in Ontario, Canada - and my garage is so small that it barely fits my snowblower!

Kelly

[HUMTECH]

I do work at a dealer, cant control parts prices but the labor time they quoted you is out to lunch. Shift control assembly pays 1.4 hours. Dont know where they got 3 hours from but that is a high quote