This is definitely not the well-known problem with the steering locking that people mention. This is the key won't go in the ignition at all. The car was stolen a few months ago and recovered. It was stolen from my Volvo mechanic's house because we are friends and he was keeping it for me. The car was locked. He said there are filed down keys that car thieves use on the old 240s. I never heard of this before.

The key worked fine afterwards and I've driven it for 3 months with no problem. Today I went into work and when I came out my key would not go in the ignition and looks like something is jammed in there. I don't know if someone tried to steal it again and left something in the ignition, which was my first thought. Also I took this picture as it looks like something is stuck in there. Or, is the ignition "broken" in some way? I can't find a single locksmith who will help me with it. They all say it's too old for them to work on. Any suggestions?

 

You might have to replace the steering column lock. It's held on with a couple of security screws. You can source a used one - but it will have a different key. With that method it's possible to change the door and truck locks also if you din't want to deal with 2 keys. You may be able to order a new one from Volvo (if still offered for a car that old) that will come precut to use your existing key. Don't know how much they cost for a 240 but for a commonly failing 01-07 sxv60/70 - they cost a few hundred dollars for a precut steering column lock from Volvo.