Cadillac Repair: Key stuck in ignition, key stuck in ignition, cadillac cts

Question
QUESTION: Hello. I was browsing the web trying to find an answer and luckily came across this site. Here's my problem. I have a 2003 Cadillac CTS. Driving home from work yesterday, I noticed my anti-theft light was on, along with my traction control light. (weird). I came home, and was unable to get my key out of the ignition. Also, my car wouldn't start back up; just a clicking noise. Because the ignition wouldn't turn fully off, of course, overnight it drained my battery. Today, I replaced the battery with a brand new one. My car is able to start up (GREAT), but still the key wont come out. Also, I'm unable to move my gear shift knob (automatic) out of park. To avoid draining the new battery, this time I unplugged the red cable. ANY advice would be greatly appreciated, as I'm trying to avoid having my towed to the shop because I just spent $900 on valve cover gaskets, and still need new brakes and tires within the next couple of weeks.

ANSWER: Your most likely suspect is the ignition key cylinder lock where the key goes IN needs to be replaced as it is broken internally.

You can try and spray some graphite into the lock cylinder along side the ignition key and keep working the key and you might be lucky and the graphite will loosen the tumblers inside the lock.

You can buy a small tube of graphite at any aut parts store.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks, I really appreciate the quick response and advice. Ignition Key Lock Cylinder sounds expensive, but I could be wrong. As I mentioned before, I'm trying to avoid getting my car towed. How much would that part run me, IF avail at an Autoparts store? And, could it be installed by an average Joe (like myself). Sorry for all the questions. I'm also going to try the Graphite.

Answer
You will need some special tools to remove the steering wheel and the lock plate inside the steering column to change the ignition lock.

I know someone who can help you do this with pictures and instructions.

You can rent the 2 special tools at any AUTOZONE store and also purchase the new lock cylinder.

When you get the new lock cylinder from the auto parts store, You need to have a facility that sells and cuts keys so you can purchase the identical key that ohms out exactly to the ohms of your old key and have the new key cut to your old keys grooves in the new key. You will need to e-mail: cadillactech@hush.ai