Someone tried to make off with my wife's 91 240 -- they drilled out the ignition switch but couldn't get the car started so it didn't go anywhere. Obviously I need to put in a new switch but in the mean time we'd like to have use of the car. I'm far from a mechanic but reasonably mechanically inclined with some previous electrical experience with my old Audi, so I'm confident I could get the car started. The problem is the steering lock. I don't have a concept of how I might be able to release that without turning the key.

Is the steering lock situation going to be beyond the average tinkerer? Trying to decide if I just need to have AAA tow it into a shop or if I can buy myself some time by releasing the steering lock somehow and hooking up a start switch in the meantime. TIA!

 

You will simply have remove the two security bolts holding the steering column lock onto the column. Note there are no heads on the bolts - they break off when installed. You will have to drill/chisel/vice grip the bolts loose. Starting the car is the easy part, after you remove the ignition switch simply use a flat head screwdriver to turn the ignition switch - (bottom photo)

If you are lucky you might be able to still order a lock to match your key from Volvo (using your VIN) that way you will only have to carry one large key. Or if cost matters I'm certain there are plenty of used steering column locks available. Or - just use a screwdriver to start the car for the rest of it's life - that's free.

 

Removing the column bolts requires a sharp center punch, 7/64" drill bit (cobalt for hard metal), and screw extractor for 5/32 - 7/32" bolts . All were available at a hardware store.