My wife's S60 will very intermittently not recognize the key. Actually, keys - one of which is hardly ever used.

I read online about the pin that pops out, etc, so I went to take apart the column shroud and take a look. Took the 3 bolts out, noticed the key was still in ignition, I pulled it out and saw the ring light up around the ignition switch. Put key back in and it would start.

This doesn't seem like the pin issue... it almost seems more electrical. Any thoughts?

I'll pay more attention to the "key in the ignition, door open" chime to see if it changes. I know that was not happening (no chime) when it wouldn't start this time.

 

There is nothing electrical that can/will prevent the key from turning. The steering column lock is a simple mechanical lock with a "deadbolt" that pokes into the steering column with the key removed.

Mechanically the steering column lock can have problems (common, requiring replacement), or the "deadbolt" that locks the steering column can prevent the steering wheel from turning if the wheels were turned when the key was previously removed.

 

Like hoonk said, sometimes you just have turn the wheel back a little to get that deadbolt style lock out of the way. Same thing on my S60.

 

Thanks for the replies. I tried the "move the wheel" some to get the key to turn, but it didn't help. I'll report back if I can figure this out or have more info.