Ignition key spinning at start

bigfinn · Post by **bigfinn** » 17 Nov 2008, 21:11

Recently, my ignition key will spin 360 without engaging anything. It simply spins without contact. I can pull the key out and try again, and it then will engage the engine. Anyone experience this condition? And how to fix or correct. This condition does not happen all the time, but it is happening once every 5 ignition starts.
Dave,
98 s70

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 17 Nov 2008, 21:32

You need a new ignition switch. They aren't outrageous and the installation isn't that difficult. I believe we have a write-up in the repair database as well.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 18 Nov 2008, 07:21

On 850's they are a snap to change, on the S/V series they are tougher.

Here is a link:

https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... hp?t=13514

...Lee

bigfinn · Post by **bigfinn** » 19 Nov 2008, 09:42

Ordered the ignition switch from FCP Groton, hoping that replacing the switch will solve my problem. Car will no longer engage. Key spins completely around in the ignition. Should get part by end of week, and will follow up with results. Instructions for replacing are on IPDUSA.com . Still don't see how replacing the ignition switch will allow the ignition to engage. Any other thoughts out there as I wait for the part to arrive?

Post by **mom** » 19 Nov 2008, 10:31

Have a look here:

https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... hp?t=13514

bigfinn · Post by **bigfinn** » 19 Nov 2008, 11:13

Ignition cylinder? Not ignition switch? The ignition cylinder fix referred to an ignition stuck in position I, with a new key along with the ignition cylinder. Hoping I don't need to buy all of that. Are you saying that the ignition switch will not solve my problem?

Post by **mom** » 19 Nov 2008, 19:09

bigfinn wrote:Ignition cylinder? Not ignition switch? The ignition cylinder fix referred to an ignition stuck in position I, with a new key along with the ignition cylinder. Hoping I don't need to buy all of that. Are you saying that the ignition switch will not solve my problem?

Sometimes it spins 360 deg or it stays in position 1, both symptoms are consequence of a bad cylinder lock. They tend to fail and the one you'll get will be exactly the same ,no improvement (confirmed by the dealer).

It's a good job but with a 90 degrees drill it is easier.

If you wait too long, one day your car won't start at all.Towing+cylinder+job=$$$

good luck.

bigfinn · Post by **bigfinn** » 25 Nov 2008, 22:24

Just put in a new ignition lock cylinder. Paid $285 for the part at the dealership, only place you can get this part. They wanted an additional $260 for labor, so I decided to do it myself. All went well. Took me about 3 hours, not that hard...just follow step by step directions that are posted on this forum!
Also replaced the ignition switch while I had everything apart. The original one looked a little fried.

Thanks again.
Dave

Post by **mom** » 26 Nov 2008, 18:12

bigfinn wrote:Just put in a new ignition lock cylinder. Paid $285 for the part at the dealership, only place you can get this part. They wanted an additional $260 for labor, so I decided to do it myself. All went well. Took me about 3 hours, not that hard...just follow step by step directions that are posted on this forum!
Also replaced the ignition switch while I had everything apart. The original one looked a little fried.

Thanks again.
Dave

GOOD JOB!!!!
I'm glad you did it yourself, we're here to help each other.And you keep your wallet a little thicker