2000 Grand Am - how do i remove the ignition switch?

Hi all - great resource you have here!

We're changing (or trying to change) the ignition switch on my 2000 Pontiac Grand Am. Got the radio out and trying to get at the ignition switch. It pulls part way into the radio cavity but no further. Are we approaching it the wrong way? How do we get this out?

after the two bolts are removed thats holding the ignition,
push it straight back to clear the monting braket,
then it should lift up and out behind the dash.

After you get it out, stick the key in and turn to run.
Push the pin in to remove the lock cylinder w/key still in.
Also thiers a tab to push to release the interlock cable,
and two wiring cables to remove.


Hope that helps

Ok, so far so good (tyvm!), but there's another set of 3 wires that go into the top part of the switch opposite the two wiring cables. It ends in a clip with tabs on the sides to apparently pinch for removing it, but it won't pull out. Something to do with security maybe? How do I remove that?

push in the black tab to release the interlock cable.
the 2 wire connector up by the ignition sw. can only be removed after the cylinders removed.

then underneath is a pin to push to get the ignition cylinder out.

hope that helped

Also when you get the new switch in, the car wont start. I know cause I just finished doing one on ours today. I tried to start it and no go, just the security light flashing. Was told to check with GM dealer as they are the only ones that have right equipment to input into computer to straighten out security codes to allow car to start......But....GM technition told me to try to start, if no go, leave ignition on for ten minutes, turn off and try to start again. If still no go, leave on for another ten minutes. Should work the third time. It worked the second time for me. Sounds strange but it worked. Other than that its going to cost you money to get it going... Hope this helps....By the way I changed complete ignition switch and had all the wires disconected. The old one, the key wouldent turn, dont know why....just changed it.....

YAY IT WORKED! That was the key, funcruise. Took us 4 times, but it worked, and I'm thrilled not to have to take it to the dealer!!!

You guys have been great for helping, thanx a lot.

P.S. We ended up splicing wires on the last clip with the three wires. Something you had to take apart in the back to get it to unclip? That's from the parts guy, and the starter we bought used came with the clip still in and wires ready to splice, so that was easiest. Thanks again.

Glad to be of assistance. It was quite a quincidence that you posted the same day as I finished up the same job. By the way I spliced the three wires on top too. Happy motering.............