Pontiac Repair: 98 Grand Prix starting problem, pontiac grand prix, sharpie marker

Question
Thank you for your time. I have a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix GT (3.8L motor, auto tranny). I recently have encouontered a problem with starting the car. It will start when I use the auto start (keyless), but will not start nor let the key out of the ignition if I try and start the car with the key. The wiring was done professionally, and when I first got the auto start installed, everything worked fine (car would start with the key). However, recently the key would not work to start it. Also, on the dash cluster, there is only a faint blinking indication that the car is in P or N all other gears are indentified by a bright red light. I have replaced the neutral override swtich cluster with a new one. I think that it is a wiring problem, but I am not sure. I am mechanically and electrically inclined, but I have never ran into this before. Once again, thank you for your time and help in advance. I do appreciate it.

Sean

Answer
Hi
From your description, it sounds like your Shifter assembly MAY be your problem.
There is a switch in the shifter assy. that sends a signal (small voltage current) to an Actuator mounted to the Key cylinder. When this voltage is applied to the actuator, it "releases " the key. It COULD be the actuator, but  I have seen MANY more shifters than actuators.
That may also be the PRNDL faintly blinking.
I also MAY have to do with the starting problem.
Naturally as you know it needs to be in either Park or Neutral to start. If the shifter is not truly getting into Park, it MAY not be letting the it start, by keeping the Neutral start switch powered.
Why the remote start function allows it to start, I cannot tell you. There may be some override wired into the system.
You can remove the steerring column covers. On the right (passenger side) of the column, you'll see a small round actuator (about 1/3 the length and about as big around as a Sharpie marker). It has a small "chrome" plunger sticking out of it with 2 wires. Thats the Actuator (Park Lock Acuator). You can check for Voltage (test Light) when in park. I Beleive there'll be a green and black wire. Green SHOULD get hot when in Park, actually you'll be able to see the chrome plunger move when in and out of park. You can, also push the plunger when the key is stuck, and it will manually release the key. (*****You can also do the above step BEFORE taking off column covers by using the small hole on right side about as big around as a pencil in the bottom cover below the key switch******).
I really hope this helps.
Please feel free to follow back post.
Good Luck
Pawl