There is a recall on '97 sunfires ignition switches. My car wouldn't start and after trying it several times smoke started coming from the ignition column. they will install a relay switch w/ your ignition switch to convert high voltage away from it. If it doesn't start and you continually try it or hold it back too long it will start to burn as mine did A Pontiac dealership fixed it for free but I had to fight them on the towing costs. I would do a search on the recall or call a Pontiac/GM dealership and they can tell you if it goes towards yours... you!
Also check for other recalls such as the PCM recall.
You can replace the ignition lock cylinder in your 1994 Pontiac Firebird without removing the steering will. Remove the retaining ring at the top of the ignition cylinder. The ignition cylinder will slide out.
how to remove key cylinder on 98 sunfire
Remove steering wheel Remove Steering lock plate Place ignition in on position Depress lock pin now exposed. If this is not possible, drill out lock pin.
Remove the panel under steering wheel. There will be 2 flashers. Replace one on right.
Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding * Disable the airbag system * Remove the tilt lever if equipped * Remove the upper and lower steering column covers Ignition Switch * Remove the ignition switch retaining screws * Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors Key Lock Cylinder * Turn the key to the run postion * Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder
Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding * Disable the airbag system * Remove the tilt lever if equipped * Remove the upper and lower steering column covers Ignition Switch * Remove the ignition switch retaining screws * Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors Key Lock Cylinder * Turn the key to the run postion * Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder
Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding * Disable the airbag system * Remove the tilt lever if equipped * Remove the upper and lower steering column covers Ignition Switch * Remove the ignition switch retaining screws * Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors Key Lock Cylinder * Turn the key to the run postion * Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder
Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding * Disable the airbag system * Remove the tilt lever if equipped * Remove the upper and lower steering column covers Ignition Switch * Remove the ignition switch retaining screws * Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors Key Lock Cylinder * Turn the key to the run postion * Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder
Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding * Disable the airbag system * Remove the tilt lever if equipped * Remove the upper and lower steering column covers Ignition Switch * Remove the ignition switch retaining screws * Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors Key Lock Cylinder * Turn the key to the run postion * Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder
Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding * Disable the airbag system * Remove the tilt lever if equipped * Remove the upper and lower steering column covers Ignition Switch * Remove the ignition switch retaining screws * Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors Key Lock Cylinder * Turn the key to the run postion * Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder
Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding * Disable the airbag system * Remove the tilt lever if equipped * Remove the upper and lower steering column covers Ignition Switch * Remove the ignition switch retaining screws * Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors Key Lock Cylinder * Turn the key to the run postion * Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder
Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding * Disable the airbag system * Remove the tilt lever if equipped * Remove the upper and lower steering column covers Ignition Switch * Remove the ignition switch retaining screws * Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors Key Lock Cylinder * Turn the key to the run postion * Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder