2000 S40, ignition key turns to the "ON" but doesn't start

tbarkdull · Post by **tbarkdull** » 14 Jun 2009, 11:45

I have a 2000 S40 1.9T with 126000+ miles. Car runs great, but last week I made a quick trip in town. When I reurned to my car, the ignition key will only turn as far as the "ON" position and no further. I cannot start it. Lights are on on dash, radio and the like. Just cannot start it. Anyone have any ideas?

As a side note, where is the starter located? I wish to try a remote starter switch to see if it will start so I can move it.

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 15 Jun 2009, 15:27

Your ignition switch is stuck. Some people say you can just force it on past the sticking point, but it might break the key off. Try spraying some WD40 or PB Blaster into the keyhole, then run the key in and out about 10 times, then try to turn the switch. If it won't go to "start" keep turning it back and forth a few times. Hopefully that will loosen it up. If that doesn't do it, take the switch portion off the back of the lock cylinder and see if the key will turn. If it does, you need a new switch. If not, you need a new lock cylinder.

tbarkdull · Post by **tbarkdull** » 18 Jun 2009, 17:31

Thanks so much for the reply. I tried your suggestion with PB Blaster and no dice. However, I was able to remove the switch from the back of the key cylinder and tried the key itself. It still will not turn to start position. But I can start it using a screwdriver in the switch itself. I can at least drive it now and get it to the dealer. I know it is the key cylinder only. Can I safely disassemble the key cylinder and possibly repair it? Is there something I should be aware of? Thanks so much for your help....

Tony

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 18 Jun 2009, 18:17

tbarkdull wrote:Thanks so much for the reply. I tried your suggestion with PB Blaster and no dice. However, I was able to remove the switch from the back of the key cylinder and tried the key itself. It still will not turn to start position. But I can start it using a screwdriver in the switch itself. I can at least drive it now and get it to the dealer. I know it is the key cylinder only. Can I safely disassemble the key cylinder and possibly repair it? Is there something I should be aware of? Thanks so much for your help....

Tony

I don't know of any way to take the cylinder apart. Maybe some other posters can help with that. Most people just go to a dealer and purchase a new cylinder. I don't know if you would need new keys for that.

drsugg · Post by **drsugg** » 18 Jun 2009, 20:38

I've seen one like this before. Getting the lock cyl out was fairly easy. Problem was actually in the steering column. A piece of the column lock was jamming the linkage between the switch and lock cyl. A was able to un-stick it with a small screwdriver. Was a long time ago and I don't remember all the details, but replacing the column would probably be the permanent fix

tbarkdull · Post by **tbarkdull** » 18 Jul 2009, 11:27

I went to a local junk yard and they ordered a replacement (used) for $75. When I received it, it was the whole steering column from the u-joint up to but not including the steering wheel. Looking at the lock cylinder, it doesn't seem to be removable. It appears to be riveted on. I will try to replace the entire column. Looks like only four bolts holding it on. I may need a steering wheel puller though. Wish me luck.

tbarkdull · Post by **tbarkdull** » 02 Aug 2009, 14:26

I reinstalled the electrical part of the igntion back into the lock cylinder. It appears to be working for now. I can feel a "catch" on occasion when turning the key. eventually I'll have to replace it, but for now it is working