Ignition issue with the key?

ATOMICDR

MEMBER
2007 VOLKSWAGEN RABBIT
2.5L
5 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
290,000 MILES

Moved the car forward yesterday about 50 feet or so, so I backed into a different parking space, and turned it off. Went out 3 hours later and attempted to start it, key won't turn past the on position. Will turn on and off and break the locked steering free but won't go far enough to activate the starter. Key looks fine. Sprayed canned air (used for computer cleaning) hoping to dislodge any debris that might have found its way in there. Finally tried some graphite sprayed in there. Nothing is working. Is it safe or recommended to spray a lubricant like wd40 in there with this car having some sort of computerized security system?
Any other thoughts on this issue?

Thank you in advance for any helpful suggestions.

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
46,907 POSTS

Yep, these tumblers fall apart internally and when they do it's time for a new unit. Here is how to replace the ignition tumbler lock. You can find a new one on Amazon. Here is one for $29.00:

https://amzn.to/3WZRTXS

This guide may help as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ignition-switch-wont-turn-stuck

Steering Column Switch

Steering Lock Housing

CAUTION!
When disconnecting and connecting battery, the procedure must be followed as described in the repair information. Refer to=> [ Battery, Disconnecting and Connecting ] See: Battery > Procedures > Battery, Disconnecting and Connecting.

To remove steering lock housing, it is first necessary to remove base carrier for steering column switches.

CAUTION!
Steering lock may be destroyed.

If steering lock is operated without lock cylinder, it locks and must be replaced.

Steering lock must not be operated without lock cylinder.

Removing

Disconnect battery

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