Greetings everyone, I've been trying to figure out an issue on my 98 Legacy Outback with the help of friends, forums, you name it.
The issue is mostly that I intermittently can't remove the key from the ignition. There doesn't seem to be a rhyme, reason, or pattern why. Well, there's a reason I'm sure, I just haven't found it yet.
Occasionally, when turning the car off, the key won't turn counter-clockwise all the way. During the episode of not being able to remove the key, the door chime dings but sounds scratchy and sick and the door ajar / seatbelt display is dim. After a short while, you can hear the pin release and I can finish turning the key and remove it. The door chime is loud and solid as is the display. Oh, and the radio antenna doesn't go up or down anymore.
Here's what I've tried:
The steering wheel turns freely and is not locked or holding the column.
It happens when the brake pedal is depressed or free.
All the fuses are good under the dash and under the hood.
The problem persist with the steering column in any angle.
The interlock safety switch / neutral safety switch works well and is not gummed up or dirty. It's pretty clean and tests ok with a meter.
The solenoid for the shift release works well and appropriately.
I replaced the shift lock electronic console, but it didn't change the issue.
I can occasionally remove the key when the car is in drive, reverse, etc... But not all the time.
I've had the ignition tumbler replaced and the problem persists equally pre and post replacement.
The door open switch works / tests fine and the interior lights are on when the door is open and do not flicker when the issue is present.
Hazards and horn work, as do all other electronic devices.
Battery good, alternator good.
No critters.
I have disconnected the antenna, still persists.
Wet or dry, no change.
The radio in the car is an aftermarket but it was there when we bought it two years ago and the problem wasn't present. There's a commercial pigtail connecting the radio to the harness.
I did notice remnants of a car starter or alarm that had been installed and removed at some point. There are wire clips on some of the harness wires but nothing is attached to them.
I'm at a loss and ready to disable the solenoid to the ignition key pin release.
Any thoughts? I greatly appreciate any help....