How do I stop the key release button thing from working? It's bloody annoying to have to press the button every time to take the key out, and sometimes it sticks so I can't turn the car on, I have to take the key out and wiggle it around a couple of times, is there any way to take it out and stop it from being so annoying?

Nope I think it part of the ignition barrel, try free it up with silicon spray.

Yep, common problem as the second gen ages. The button releases the key, and you hear a "clunk" when you pull it out. That's the steering lock engaging. If it doesn't clunk, and you can't start the car, it means the immobiliser is not reset and the car won't start. Don't pull it all apart, just squirt some CRC or WD40 into the key hole, and free up the mechanism. Catch any drips that come out behind the lower steering column cover with a rag.

You can't simply do away with the button. Remember no "clunk" = "no start"

A badly worn key will also cause the barrel to jam as it no longer matches the correct profile of the lock combination.

A badly worn key will also cause the barrel to jam as it no longer matches the correct profile of the lock combination.

Yes, but we all had a fresh key cut when we first bought the car, and carry it around in our wallets in case of problems, like locking your keys in the car accidentally. Right?

Yes, but we all had a fresh key cut when we first bought the car, and carry it around in our wallets in case of problems, like locking your keys in the car accidentally. Right?

I like your thinking. Actually, I might get a remote keyless system thing. From what I've seen I can get it for under $50, shouldn't be too hard to install.

I like your thinking. Actually, I might get a remote keyless system thing. From what I've seen I can get it for under $50, shouldn't be too hard to install.

I installed keyless entry on mine in less than an hour, the negative pulse made it very easy