The ignition switch in our 1997 Grand Caravan SE (170K miles) is "stuck" -- the key is stuck in the switch, and it cannot be turned to the start position. It seems to turn from Position 1 ("off" I guess) to Position 2 ("on"? I dunno what it's called) ... but not all the way to start. The key cannot be removed.

Have tried the famous "tap the key with a rubber mallet or screwdriver" trick to no avail. Have also tried turning the steering wheel and pressing the brake. No luck.

If I turn the key to position 2, I can push in the little square button on the bottom of the switch, but the tumblers do not slide out like I had read they would. Any ideas?

 

Have you tried shooting some WD40 up in next to the key?

My 97 had the same problem. It took quite a while to work the cylinder loose.

I'm not sure what I finally did that made it come loose, but when I got it out I found there is a little plastic finger that was causing the problem.
I dont know what it does but removing it has had no effect on its operation.

Squirt WD in and keep working it loose.

Good Luck,
PinCup

 

The key is to hold that plastic button depressed while pulling on the key, and continue to hold it depressed until it clears the slot it rests in.