Hyundai Repair: starter runs all the time, starter solenoid, lock cylinder

Question
1998 Accent- If I try to put my shifter into neutral, reverse or park with the key just "on" the starter will grind when I try to move it to those positions-could this possibly be the ignition switch is stuck in the "start" position? I have to leave the car in "drive" because I can't put it into park. Is there anything in the starter circuit that can cause this? It happened once before-then went away for a few months, now it it back and won't go away-any suggestions?  Thanks for any info

Answer
If your ignition switch stays in the "start" position and doesn't return to the "on" position after you start the car, that will cause the symptoms you describe.  If that's the case, you should check your key and lock cylinder.  Try turning the key back a little and see if the symptoms go away and the car remains running.  If so, you've definitely got a problem with the key or ignition switch.  If the starter runs even with the key out of the ignition, it's very unlikely that the ignition switch is the problem.

If the ignition switch springs back a little after you release the key after starting the car, then your problem is likely with the starter itself.  Although rare, it's possible that the starter solenoid contacts have welded together causing the starter to stay running all the time.  This should occur independent of the position of the gearshift, so I suspect the starter isn't your issue.