1998 Volvo V70 Key turns only one click - wont turn to on/a

Hi richturn,

Thank you for the donation.

If the gear cable is out of adjustment, it usually would prevent the key from being turned to LOCK and removed and not when trying to start. Symptoms seems to indicate a faulty ignition key cylinder which is different from the ignition switch swhich is located at the rear of the key cylinder.

Turn the steering wheel away from the locked position and try wiggling the key. If it works, it could be the steering was in locked position or the key cylinder is bad.

Hi Rich,

Lucky thing the key can still be turned to the " I " position, that would make it easy to remove the lock assy. A locksmith should be able to do the repair for you. Once the lock is out, use a screwdriver to turn the internal part of steering lock to test if you can start vehicle.

Removing the lock would make it easier to rectify any problem. Debris could have gotten into the cylinder and compressed air might help.

DO NOT use anything to force the key tumblers, that might damage the key cylinder beyond repair.

The key is not equipped with transponder and no programming is required with lock change.

Here are the removal procedures for the lock cylinder.

LOCK CYLINDER
Removal
Disconnect negative battery cable.
Lower steering wheel adjusting lever and pull steering wheel to highest position.
Remove upper and lower steering column covers.
Insert ignition key into lock.
Turn key to "I" position.
Using a .079" (2-mm) drift, press lock cylinder lock lug down.
Remove lock cylinder.
NOTE : Take care not to lose the small joint behind key cylinder( if equipped )

Installation
Insert key into new lock cylinder.
Turn key to "I" position.
Using a .079" (2-mm) drift, press lock lug down.
Install ignition lock.
Install upper and lower steering column covers.
Ensure no wires are pinched when covers are installed.
To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.

The link that you provided stated it is for 99 upwards whereas yours is 98 so it should be different. However we cannnot discount the possibility that your model is not equipped with it.

If you lock assy looks like the one indicated, then it applies.

The lock lug is at top of cylinder housing where you would find a bridge like section.

If you need to remove the lock assy, at the part where a drill is used, you can use a center punch and a small hammer to tap the bolt loose. It usually works. When tapping, use light force, just enough to vibrate it loose. Excessive force would cause the bolt to stick and also shear the bolt making it more difficult to loosen as the punch is unable to hold position.

Any donation is always welcomed and appreciated. It is not our policy to demand for donations and we leave it to the customer's discretion.