I'm working on a '98 XC that's having the common "key won't turn" issue. I pulled the lock cylinder out and found that the shifter interlock cable is not connected. In its place is a plug that looks factory, not hacked in there by somebody.



The cable is just hanging there.



Isn't this cable supposed to be connected? Is that plug in the ignition just something that comes with the lock cylinder, and maybe somebody replaced the ignition once before and never hooked up the cable?

I know none of this is going to solve my lock cylinder issue, but when I put it back together I want to put it together correctly.

Any thoughts appreciated.

 

Yes that plug comes from Volvo when ordering a new lock.I ordered one and I won't do that again. I found 2 at a pick you own part with keys for 10.00. Why the steering lock cable isn't but back on is anyone's guess. On the new lock turn the key to # 2 position and the cable can can be taken out and put back in.

jpirish

 

Thanks for the input. I figured that plug was supposed to be removed but wanted to make sure.

I thought about a junk yard switch, but it's my moms car, and she's planning on keeping it forever, so it's money well spent in my mind. I'm trying to avoid one of those phone calls that starts with "I'm in (some town 100 miles away) and the key won't turn."

 

Wow. I just made a thread about having issues with my ignition. I guess that's one more thing I can check before I shell out close to $500 for a new tumbler. I thought I had been having problems with that cable on the other end (by the gear selector) based on the symptoms, so I guess it's time to go digging again...