Why would an ignition lock and cause you to have to replace the lock cylinder and ignition switch on a 2003 Pontiac grand am?

Answer 1

You should not have to replace both, more than likely just the lock cylinder. The key does not turn, that is why "they say"you need to replace both Technically, in order to remove the lock cylinder you need to be able to turn the key to remove the lock cylinder, it can be worked around, I just did one on a 99 Grand Am. It really was quite simple once I got it apart. If the ignition will not turn from the off position; you cannot remove the lock cylinder in a normal manner by turning the key to the on position and depressing the retainer pin and sliding the lock cylinder out. If you just drill out the semi-rectangular shaped area behind the retainer pin you can break the lever style spring on the lock cylinder and the retainer pin will come out allowing you to remove the lock cylinder(make sure to leave the area immediately (approximately ¼") behind the retainer pin so you can reinstall the new lock cylinder). Nobody supplied me this information the Auto Zone near me had both the lock cylinder and the ignition switch in stock so I could see how it all went together before I got started. Once you get the new cylinder, you may want to take it to a lock smith and have it keyed to match the existing key so you don't have to mess with two keys (one for the doors and one for the ignition). The one thing you need to be aware of is the factory Passlock Security System. If you did not have the ignition re-keyed you will need to reprogram the security system in order for the car to start. I used the 10 minute reprogram for the Passlock 2 system, put the key in the ignition and turn the engine over (the car should not start, if it did you are done), turn the key to the ON position, let it set for 10 min. The security light should be flashing. After 10 min. the security light should stop flashing the car is ready to learn the new key value. Turn the key off, wait 5 seconds, and then try to start the car. I was highlty dissapointed in the lack of information available on this problem since it seems to be a very common issue with Grand Am and other GM products. I will continue to monitor this question to assits further if you have additional questions. Hopefully I can save some people some money, there is no need to go to a dealership to get this problem fixed. It is a very easy fix, if you take your time. Once I got the parts, I had the car running 30 minutes later. Good luck!