Key Will Not Turn in Ignition

MSTODER

MEMBER
1998 VOLVO S70
FWD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

I have a 98 Volvo S70. This morning, I tried to turn the key in the ignition, but it will not turn. In the process of fidgeting and (cursing), the steering wheel locked, but even after unlocking the steering wheel, no luck.

I have tried pushing the shift overide and putting car into neutral, but still, the key will not turn.

Please help! I live in an area where a car is an absolute necessity, and would like to avoid paying to get it towed and fixed, if possible.

1 Reply

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,411 POSTS

What you may try but it may not work, is spraying inside the tumbler with graphite spray. If that does not work then you will need to replace the steering column lock which you will need to order from the dealer and takes up to 7 business days to get the part. Also you may need to replace the contact reel as well. Given the age of the vehicle, it is very difficult removing it without it breaking apart. Sorry for the bad news? :(
For this repair I would recommend you find a shop that can do this repair since it does involve drilling out the sheered off bolts on top to remove the column lock. Let me know if there is anything else you would like to know?