2004 xterra ignition key won't turn all the way off

[v***@gmail.com]

My xterra is driving me insane, sometimes I put it in park and the key works perfectly, other times, it will turn off, but won't go the 1 more click so I can remove it. If I sit there and put the car in drive, back to park, turn the key several times I can get it to come out most of the time. Last night I got in it, and it started right up, but my lights wouldn't turn on, andddd I couldn't get the key out. The blinkers worked. And of course as soon as I get home, hubby gets in it, and everything works perfectly, so he thinks it's all me. I am not insane, I know how to drive, this is a real problem! Any suggestions other than pushing it over a cliff??? lol

[Steve W.]

Post by v***@gmail.com
My xterra is driving me insane, sometimes I put it in park and the
key works perfectly, other times, it will turn off, but won't go the
1 more click so I can remove it. If I sit there and put the car in
drive, back to park, turn the key several times I can get it to come
out most of the time. Last night I got in it, and it started right
up, but my lights wouldn't turn on, andddd I couldn't get the key
out. The blinkers worked. And of course as soon as I get home, hubby
gets in it, and everything works perfectly, so he thinks it's all me.
I am not insane, I know how to drive, this is a real problem! Any
suggestions other than pushing it over a cliff??? lol

Sounds like wear in the bushings on the cable that moves the interlock.
When you put it in park. Don't be gentle. Move the lever fast and hard.
If it works every time the bushings are worn and the park lock for the
key release isn't going fully into release. Not hard to repair but a
bunch of things have to come apart.