About 7 months ago I began having a problem getting the key out of the ignition switch in my 2005 S60 2.5T. It finally got to the point where it wouldn't come out at all and I had to take it in for repair. The Volvo clinic (no dealer anywhere near us) replaced the cable running from the console, behind the P detente, up to the ignition switch with one from a donor car. This solved the problem but now the key is beginning to stick again but very sporadically. Was the cable the right thing to replace or is there a plunger of some type between the P detente and the cable itself that is the culprit? Or?? Any info/insights into this would be most appreciated. The car has only 29,000 miles on it.

Bob G.

 

The ignition switch is wired to the shifter (so as to keep you from pulling out the key when the car is not in Park). Its possible your used part is also going bad or it could be the position sensor switch (I'm assuming 2005s have a PNP switch similar to the older V70s and 850s). for the older models, the temporary fix is to do a "shifter row" (go from park to lo to park 20x fast) to see if you can clean up the PNP contacts. There are some small amounts of adjusting that can be done on the PNP switch as well - which may solve your problem if yours is set up right on the edge of the position range.

 

If you slide the key into the ignition switch without starting or even turning it will it slide out smoothly ??
If it doesn't or feels anything but smooth it might be the cylinder needs some graphite lube. If the tumblers inside the cylinder get dried out they can be a problem too as can be the tumbler itself.

 

Thanks for the response. The key slides easily both in and out.I lubed it well when this first started happening. The best clue I have is the fact that when I move the shift lever out of park and then extra firmly back into park the key comes right out. Probably an adjustment to the PNP which I need to get after.

 

It's not the gear position sensor. More likely need to clean and lubricate the lever where the shift lock cable connects to the shifter. Could also be a damaged shift **** button.