I just bought this very nice V70 used 6 months ago. Now suddenly it won´t let me turn starter key further than to position I. Radio comes on. Clicks are heard under shift stick, which is in position P. If I press brake pedal while turning key, no click under shifter heard. Displays showing mileage etc come on, and airbag light comes on, no other instrument warning lights light up.

What is this? Can I disconnect battery, wait a few mins, reconnect and try again?

Help urgently needed, I really have to have this car up and running the next few days.

Gustafkalle

When the key wouldn't turn on my 99 V70, I was able to get a few more miles out of it by squirting carb cleaner and silicone spray in the slot. It would be fine for a while then I would have to do it again. I finally got scared that I'd get stranded and I had the lock cylinder changed.

Hi Gustafkalle

I had the same problem with a 2002 V70. Here's what I found that worked for me. Hopefully it will help you.

http://www.brickboard.com/AWD/index.htm?id=1117384&show_all=1

Ketchb

Thanks for advice. Sprayed WD-40 in there last night and tried to turn, was afraid key "holder" would break since it is plastic. Will try again this morning. Is it better to try a pair of pliers or did you just turn by holding onto the keyholder?

This thing about a solenoid in there, is that contributing to the problem, and can anything be done by disconnecting electrics? Is there any fuse that could have gone bad (have checked fuses but no obvious culprit)

Any help appreciated!

Gustafkalle

Hi Gustafkalle

I just forced the key, mine is a 2002 so it's just a key with the plastic top so I didn't use anything else and it broke free. It was a little scary to use that much force, I was afraid that I might break the key, but it work and I have never had the problem since. You could try shaking the steering wheel while your turning the key. Just to make sure that it's not interfering with the lock cylinder's movement.

I don't think that there is a fuse that would effect the key turning. When it happened to me I took the steering column apart so I could start the car with the key in the number one position. I had to get it home from the gas station down the road. But there wasn't anything that could be done to fix the problem other than forcing the key.

Ketchb

Hi!

I did as suggested in previous thread, sprayed with CRC 5-56 (corresponds to wd-40) and waited overnight. Applied same maximal force I dared day before, and now the key turned. It is very resistant, so it will not flex back form engaged starter position, I have to do that myself, but car now drivable. Before this, I went to Volvo authorized dealer and asked about any electronic gadgets possibly preventing turning of key, and in there should be none. They recommend replacement of lock cylinder.

I thus I have to retract my banter in first post about electronic gadgets. And thanks, Volvo technician, for taking your time explaining.

I spoke with work colleague who takes care of locks, and he confirms my suspicion that the problem might be for example small textile debris that has entered the lock, he suggests taking lock cylinder out and cleaning it with isopropanol (same as in many windshiled wash concentrates). He says a modern high precision lock should have no lubrication, oils may become rancid and block, and they also make dirt stick and stay in the lock.

In short,I would be very glad if someone could provide me with a link to picture or a description of how to take the lock cylinder out.

Gustafkalle

Found this page with pictures: http://volvospeed.com/Repair/ignition_S80.html

I don´t feel confident enough to do this myself on my daily driver. Volvo authorized shop next.

Gustafkalle