I have an 02 s80 that was running and now I can't get the key past the half way point. I drove it for about 40 min and parked it. Came back to leave and I couldn't get the key past the half way point. I did the normal wiggle the steering wheel from left to right and put in the brake and tried to get it all the way into park, if that was the problem. Still nothing. I tried to jump it thinking the battery was bad and still nothing. We rocked it back and forth trying to maybe knock the gears into place and still the same thing. Does it sound like the ignition switch or is it something electrical? Is it an easy fix or do I need to have it towed to a mechanic? I want to fix it myself if it is relatively easy to do and will cut down on cost. Please help me.

 

did you figure out the problem

 

Well did you find out what the problem was due to which the key was not operating.

 

could you tell me was it the column lock that went bad to not let the key turn past half way

 

when you say turn half way...does the ignition turn so all the dashlights come on. If the light arnt on then no point bump starting it. it actually sound as though the steering lock has jammed and might be worth having a look there.

 

you can turn the key to the first position,lights come on and steering wheel turns. you just cant turn it from there. i unplugged the column shifter cable,ignition switch and wire connector to the ignition key assembly. the key still will not turn. do you need the wire connectors hooked up to be able to turn the key all the way. or if you bought a brand new key ignition out of the box would you be able to turn the key all the way in your hand?

 

does the key cylinder need power to be able to turn the key all the way. thats what i meant.