can't turn the key in the ignition
 

Looking for any advise. We own a 04 Avalanche. Last night we needed to move it back a few feet so my wife hopped in, turned the key, put it in neutral and let it roll back about 10 feet. She put it back in park, removed the key, got out and locked the door.

Today I hopped in and I can't turn the key. I tried the other key (both original and no luck). I can't find a blown fuse anywhere (thought maybe there was an electrical interlock) and I disconnected the battery for an hour hoping that might change things but no luck.

Anyone have any other ideas? Does the ignition have an electronic interlock that will stop the key from turning? Only 45,000 miles on the truck.

Thanks

Re: can't turn the key in the ignition
 

Did you try turning the steering wheel one way or the other? If there is some tension on the steering wheel lock mechanism, then you can't turn the key. That would be my best guess.

Re: can't turn the key in the ignition
 

steering wheel lock is not engaged. I can turn the wheel from side to side.

Re: can't turn the key in the ignition
 

As far as I know there is no electronic interlock on these trucks. I could be wrong though. Here are a couple of pages that I took from a complete wiring diagram that I got from AHDOL (Good deal for $12 IMHO) for my 04 Silverado. It doesn't show any type of interlocking system.

Can you move the shifter at all? Maybe it didn't go all the way back into Park before she removed the key? If not, then I think I'm stumped.

Re: can't turn the key in the ignition
 

thanks for the advise and the pages. Those do look handy. The shifter is in park. I can move it toward me, but not down and into any gear. I am stumped too. I hate to do it but I'll probably have to tow it to the dealer tomorrow.

Re: can't turn the key in the ignition
 

For anyone who is interested. . .

I found a gm mechanic on line who shared a service bulletin with me for 99-05 gm vehicles. It stated that the lock cylinders are prone to collecting enough of a dust build up to impede the pins from retracting correctly. The recommended solution was to shoot 60 psi of compressed air or brake cleaner in the lock cylinder to dislodge the material. It sounded far fetched after all I had tried but I gave some brake cleaner a shot and problem solved. I think I will remove the lock cylinder and clean it thoroughly and then oil it with some light oil.

Re: can't turn the key in the ignition
 

GREAT info to know since I have a '99 Chevy 1/2ton. Thanks!!!!!!!!

Re: can't turn the key in the ignition
 

just a word of warning zacut-- youll probably have to have the security relearned if you remove the cylinder. some of the do and some dont, im not positive on a 04 avalanche though