I started my car and the key would not return back to its running position after it ran the starter. The car was running and I could not turn it off! I wrestled the key for a long time. If I barely bump the key forward, it grinds the starter, so back towards me is the only way. The check engine light came on after a bit, airbag light, and the fans would not start (a/c would not work or kick the fans on either). I finally managed to get the key to turn the engine off by pulling outward on the switch some.

I noticed this morning there is a catch it the ignition switch when I start my car. Whatever is wrong, it finally caused me a big issue. I have to drive home today after work and I need to know if it happens again, how can I shut the car down? I'm also going to try my spare key tonight to see if maybe my key is worn out to the point that this is causing the problem.

 

Don't ever pull a battery cable when the engine is running. Alternator damage is sure to occur.

Pull the PCM and injector fuses. When the engine stops, yank the neg battery cable...

 

Mine did the exact same thing a couple weeks ago. I had to pull the vac. line from the brake booster off the intake to cut the car off. My problem ended up being the button on top of the shifter. If you take the steering column out you can see where that button is hooked to the ignition switch. Well, mine was sticking right there at the switch. I just unhooked mine and it works fine now.

 

A sure way to kill it is to unplug a fuse, or unhook battery and alternator. You could also pop the coil wire off.

 

Had a simliar problem with a 94 Formula, sprayed a little, LITTLE, WD-40 in the key slot and worked the key in-out, on-off. Seems to help.

 

Thanks everyone. I'll work on it this week when the in-laws get here :yuk: