Key wouldn't turn, got car started, steering wheel locked

Ezbme2003 · Post by **Ezbme2003** » 27 Dec 2017, 11:35

I need some help. I have an 04 XC70. This morning the key would not turn. I researched this site and Google and found an easy way to bypass the issue. I took off the cover under the column and also removed the back of the ignition. This allowed me to start the car. Problem is the steering wheel is locked. I am in a bad situation and am willing to take drastic measures to fix this if anyone has ideas!

How do unlock the wheel? I have a big hammer if needed -

Ezbme2003 · Post by **Ezbme2003** » 27 Dec 2017, 12:25

Also just realized it will not go into gear. (Auto)

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 27 Dec 2017, 12:34

Did you try wiggling the steering wheel to take pressure off the locking mechanisms? Do this as you apply pressure to the key.

Ezbme2003 · Post by **Ezbme2003** » 27 Dec 2017, 12:45

Yes, I tried to wiggle it every which way but loose.
The following problems are occuring;
Key does not turn out of 0 position
Steering wheel is locked
Cannot move gear lever out of park
Now power windows and locks not working

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 27 Dec 2017, 13:12

Sometimes this will work. Put a drop of light oil on the key, light like 3 in One, wiggle the key in the switch to spread the oil in the lock. Sometimes that will release an mechanical bind. Or you could inject a drop of oil into the lock with a syringe.

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 27 Dec 2017, 13:25

As a last resort. I have see one use a rubber mallet on well worn locks. With the rubber mallet you tap the key in and sometimes you can get the key to turn ... but its a crap shot and not without risk.

Ezbme2003 · Post by **Ezbme2003** » 27 Dec 2017, 14:25

I tried the oil did not work. I tried the Mallet and that did not work either

Ezbme2003 · Post by **Ezbme2003** » 27 Dec 2017, 14:55

I have read about opening a plate. Or the back or bottom side of the ignition, I can't remember exactly what it said.. There were some that said a tab breaks off and can cause the key to not work as it and debris needs to be removed. Has anyone encountered this?

Is there any way I can rig this to fix it? I'd hate to have to pay $500 to have a new ignition installed. It is a nice car, but it is a $1300 car that needs other attention....

Ezbme2003 · Post by **Ezbme2003** » 27 Dec 2017, 15:58

The more i think about it the more it makes sense that it is the ignition causing all the problems.
Key won't turn, ignition
Steering wheel locked, ignition
Stuck in gear, ignition
Windows not working, ignition
Being able to start the car with a screwdriver on the back half of the ignition doesn't turn everything on like the key.

Now the question is, where is the best deal for a new one?

And is there a way to fix it or bypass it? I worked on it all day, tried everything I could find as possible fixes besides taking it apart, which I will do in a day or so.

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 27 Dec 2017, 16:16

I would get a different lock from a pick and pull then, swap the tumbler so the key does not need to be reprogrammed.