1997 Volkswagen Golf Ignition/Electrical problem

AESTRELL

MEMBER
1997 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
150,000 MILES

After I start my car and disengage the handbrake, the "brake" light is dimly lit (should be off). At the same time, my headlights, windshield wipers, and a/c or heating vents dont work. I can push the key forward more, which causes all of the above to work and the "brake" light goes out. However, the key doesnt stay in that far position and turns back toward me. If I jiggle the key in multiple directions, after a few minutes I'll find the sweet spot where the lights and other accessories will come on. Then driving down the road, there is a high probability that the lights will go out and the "brake" light is dimly lit again. While attempting to get the lights back on I am constantly flashing my headlights at other drivers!

1 Reply

MATHIASO

MECHANIC
1,209 POSTS

Hello aestrell

the ignition switch must be replaced to take care of the problem.
The ignition switch is located at the bottom of the ignition key cylinder body. To remove the ignition switch, first remove the ignition lock cylinder.

Disconnect the negative battery cable.

Center the steering wheel.

Remove the air bag.

Remove the steering column switches.

Remove the adapter sleeve from the steering column.

Remove the spring and horn contact ring from the steering column assembly.

Detach the sheer bolt.

Insert the ignition key and unlock the cylinder, then detach the wiring connectors.

Once all wiring has been detached, slide the housing off the steering column.

Mark and drill the lock cylinder as shown and described in the above procedure.

Compress the stop spring and pull the lock cylinder out of the steering column housing.

Put the new lock cylinder into the steering lock housing.

Insert the key into the lock cylinder.

While you gently turn the key, insert the lock cylinder fully into the housing.

The rest of the installation procedure is the reverse of removal.