Dear Fellow Brickboarders,

Hope you're well. I've an ignition key stuck in the ignition. I'm puzzled by the following FAQ section:

"Changing Lock Cylinder Mechanism of Switch: Ignition Lock-Mechanical Portion Lock in Panel (740/940).

[Response from Bob] You don't have to remove the steering wheel under normal circumstances. The method for removing the lock cylinder is to remove top and bottom steering column covers and the panel on the driver's side footwell under the column. Insert key, turn to position 2. There is a small pin in the lock casting on the top just behind the chrome front of the barrel (about 1" from end of lock cylinder). At key position 2, depress this pin and the whole barrel pulls out. If stuck, push it from the rear."

I looked at a Volvo ignition lock assembly made in May, 2000. I do not see any "small pin in the lock casting on the top, behind the chrome front of the barrel".

There are two "pins" in this spare, factory-new ignition lock assembly. One is on the bottom (facing the floor) and the other it at the 9 o'clock position (facing the driver's door). Both pins seem to be pressed into place. Neither moved when pressed, with the key at "0" or with the key at "II".

I presume one or both of these pins hold the lock cylinder into the housing. Does anyone know which one holds the lock cylinder? If Bob's comment is correct, how much pressure is required to move this pin? I used the tip of a screw and finger power. Is more pressure required?

Thanks for your guidance.

Yours faithfully,

Spook

Hi Spook,

My experience with ignition lock assemblies is limited. I fooled around with one on a 740 and my failing memory seems to remember on pin and it was definitely pressed in. I had to remove most of the surrounding metal in order to get a grip on it and remove it.

I had the same problem you are experiencing. I purchased a 94 940 and the key was not able to be removed from the ignition because I could not turn the switch far enough.

My quick fix was to remove the cluster and disconnect the cable that comes from the shift mechanism. Once it was disconnect the switch would move all the way to the position that allowed me to remove the key.

Good luck,
Randy

Dear rstarkie,

Hope you're well. Thank you! The shift interlock cable is secured to the ignition lock housing by two black plastic lugs. Am I right to think the cable is released by pressing on those lugs? If so, how did you apply pressure on the lower lug, which is not easy to access? Or, is the cable released by rotating it? If so, in which direction?

At this point, I want to be able to remove the key. I suspect the key and/or the lock is worn to the point, that the key no longer moves the lock tumblers far enough, to allow smooth operation. Perhaps a new key will put right the problem, at least until warmer weather allows lock replacement.

Thanks again for your help!

Yours faithfully,

Spook

Spook,

I wish I could remember how I disconnected it but I'm sorry I don't. It must not have been to involved or I think I would have remembered that.

Randy