Mitsubishi Repair: Key stuck in ignition, key stuck in ignition, gear shift

Question
We replaced the gear shift knob by removing 2 screws and placing the one on, but after putting the new one on, we can not get the key out of the ignition.  We took the car to Firestone and they told us that we would need a new cylinder...could that be true?

Answer
Did you break the key off in the cylinder? Or is it just that the key will not come out of the cylinder? You did't put down the miles or year of car. But I would check with a guy that replaces locks, makes keys and the such. He might be able to remove the key for you, or make you keys that will work without replacing that cylinder. Unless you beat on it, trying to pull the key out or something like that. So damaged the cylinder that is in the steering column then you will have to replace it. But you could check at a junk yard to see if you might get one off a junked car, might be cheaper for you. If the car is old enough with no air bag, you could try taking the screws loose, on the top of the column to see if you can see what the problem might be. But if this car is new enough to have an air bag, don't mess with it. You will then have to get that guy that fixes locks, I can not tonight come up with a name for that or take the car to a shop. Hope this helps and God bless: Linda