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Jiggle the steering wheel back and forth...if the steering wheel is locked, it might cause problems. Either that or you need a new ignition cylinder or key release.
as i stated the sterring wheel is not the problem i was wondering if the if the ingnition also releases the gear selector if it is energized electronicly thx
its a anti theft thing turn the wheel just a little bit when key is in the ignition and then turn key forward and it will work it happened to my car before its a little bit tricky but thats your problem
The gear selector can be operated manualy I've never owned an automatic, but there's a safety release slot that you can use the key to stick down in it and release the shifter. More than likely its what street racer said.
I've got the Auto DOHC and there's no gear release slot that I know of. The interlock is cable operated and will not release the key unless you are in park or neutral. However, when everything works properly, the gear selector doesn't limit key turning. I will double check after work today and post around 6pm.
In the meantime, try selecting other gears (can't remember if you can without the key) or better yet, try your spare or spouse's key instead.
Glxrustang is correct ther is no slot to release gear selector on a 98 auto i removed lower steering column cover and removed gear interlock very easy then the key turned and gear selector works problem could be in the key barrel thanks all for you imput
I checked the book and my car tho and and you can't change gears without the key being in run, everything else is true in my above response. I can scan the page from the haynes if you still need it.