After shutting off the car and pulling the key, I still keep getting the ding sound like I forgot the lights, etc...

Only problem, I didn't forget anything and I can't lock the car, and ding continues until the door is shut.

Anyone have this happen. Nothing is on, everything is turned off closed.
Car is 2003 vdp.
tia

 

Sounds just like the little metal door in your ignition keyhole is sticking open. When you pull the key out of the ignition, there's a little metal door that's supposed to close. I use WD-40 with the red wand attached. Just spray a little bit in there and insert the key several times to free that door up and the problem should go away. The reason you can't lock the door is because the car thinks that there's a key in the ignition and doesn't want you to lock the key inside the car.

 

I'd suggest using a graphite lubricant as I've found WD-40 & the like will attract dust & dirt that will hinder the mechanism in time.

 

I was going to mention the graphite powder but it's somewhat hard to come by. But then again I don't go looking for it either. I know what you mean but, I haven't had any real problems with the WD. Most people have it around the house and it was also a means of fixing it here and now vs going to the store or ordering it thru Amazon.

 

If the little door is shutting then it shouldn't be attracting dirt/dust, it's kind of it's job....just say'n

 

Had the same problem with mine, with the same result. So...did the wd40 trick (it's a light solvent/water displacement (hence the WD nomenclature), and followed it up with some lock lubricant (which is basically 3-in-one oil with a graphite suspension...). The reason, as someone noted above, is that the little door on the ignition switch gets stuck...which tells the security system that you still have a key in the ignition. Lube it lightly...and it will be fine.

 

Thanks to all for the responses.

I can see the tiny door is not closed. It's just half open, I used wd40 and also tried to work it loose with the key and a small nail.

The door will not completely close, so the ding continues.

Is that door supposed to completely close?

I have not been able to get it to close completely.

tia

 

Unfortunately it has to close completely. Keep trying to work it open and closed to free it up. Try a sharp pointed awl and pull it closed and then exercise it.

 

seems to have closed for now. Thanks all.