I have this problem as well, but mine seems to be the button on the shifter sticking. I used to slam the shifter forward to get the key to release, then I realized if I just gently tapped the button a few times that worked just as well. The little latch that catches when you shift into park seems to get stuck on mine. I think it just needs a little cleaning and lube but I haven't got around to it yet. FWIW. I don't know what it's called exactly, but there is a little mechanism that pulls on that cable that is engaged and disengaged when the shifter is moved in and out of Park that gets hung up sometimes on the 13 y/o grease...