I have a 2004 Chevy Impala, lost my manual and can't get the key to turn. The wheel isn't locked & not in gear

The tumblers in the lock cylinder could be broken or worn. Your car has a Passlock 2 security system in it, so take it to someone who knows the system, otherwise the system will lock out the ignition. Also make sure your key isn't worn out.

If the cracking sound only happened when you turned the wheels all the way left or right, then it's probably a suspension sound as you were turning. The whining probably comes from your power steering pump. You can check the fluid yourself with a paper towel. It's best to do it before you drive the car so tha the engine will be cold. Once your sure you've found the power steering pump cap, remove it and wipe the dipstick off well. Reinsert the dipstick, pull it out again and make sure the fluid level comes up to the "cold fill" mark or above.

Try jiggling the steering wheel back and forth sort of hard as you try to turn the key. Or pull up on the gear shift slighty. Sometimes works for me.

Try pushing the brake pedal all the way

I'm with Fuzzy Wuzzy on this one...push the brake pedal.

use the right key that works some time

go to a dealer and ask to barrow a 2004 impala manual.always works!!!!!!!!!!!

iS THE CAR IN PARK ALSO ON SOME OF THESE MODLES YOU HAVE TO SHAKE OR JIGGLE THE STEERING WHEEL

try seeing if you can find some one with the same vehichle and barrow theirs