Hi guys! This afternoon after lunch, we came out to our 2004 V40, and the key won't turn in the ignition. It gets as far as position "I" (which makes it beep if the driver door is open, etc.), but won't go any further.

We tried pulling on the wheel while turning the key, but no joy. Interestingly the wheel has 2 stops about 5-10 degrees apart, until you put the key in and turn to position I, then the CW stop seems to go awawy (though it is VERY difficult to turn the wheel very far) but the CCW stop is still there.

On the advice of our old mechanic in Tucson, we also pushed on the shifter forward (further into Park) and made sure the little button you squeeze when you shift gears was not depressed (it wasn't).

We even tried pulling on the wheel, pushing on the shifter, and turning the key all at once, to no avail.

Any idea? I'd get it towed to a local shop, but i'm not sure the towtruck could get it onto the bed without putting it in neutral, and you can't put it in neutral until you turn the key! What a pickle!

thanks,
Rick Lindsey

 

A buddy suggested that I get some spray-grease and squirt it into the keyslot... after working the key several times with the grease, and spraying grease in, wiping up the nasty that came out, spraying grease in, wiping up the nasty that came out... eventually the key would turn... yay!!!!

BUT... the car still won't start . I can get to positions I and II without any problem. When I turn the key to start the car though, nothing happens! I get interior lights, fans, etc. when I get to position II, but not even a clicking sound when I try to start the car .

The key doesn't turn all the way to where position III is indicated on the key cylinder, but I don't think it ever did.

Any insight would be appreciated!

-Rick

 

The lock assembly is bad. The lock cylinder is good but what the cylinder goes into is bad.

I have replaced alot of them.

 

Having same problem. Any special cautions to follow before pulling lock assembly out?
Thanks
Janet