Hey everyone. I need some help asap with my 1999 S80. Last night I had a problem opening the trunk. I ended up having to unlock it with the key, and tried a few times to use the remote to lock/unlock, but it still wouldn't unlock without using the key. That was the first problem. The MAJOR problem is, we just went out to start the car, and my bf used the old Volvo key by mistake to initially start it. He put the right key in and the ignition would not turn at all. I tried my key, and same deal, won't turn. We can lock/unlock the car, but the trunk still won't open either, and now can't start either. PLEASE tell us what we need to do. Is there a way to reset the immobilzer which is probably the problem? Help!!

Generally speaking the key wears faster than the lock cylinder. You can try having a new key made fron the code, not the old key. You can also use a good LOCK lub. If you get it in time this may save you the cost of a new lock cylinder.

Chris, it is the ignition cylinder :( We called the local dealership and they agreed with you, that the key would at least turn if it was immobilized, just not start. Our key would not even turn. We went out and fiddled with it for a bit and it started, the wheel was slightly turned so it could have made it lock up, and we started it a few times no problem, but it could be we are soon in the market for a new cylinder. Thanks for your answer to this, though, you helped a lot.:) karen

Often times, if the steering wheel is in an odd position (like turned pretty ding-danged far one way or the other) when it "locks", the ignition cylinder also "locks". Have only had to replace a few ignition cylinders on 99+ S80's, and you don't want that bill! Make a habit of centering the steering wheel before turning the car off...leave a note on the dash to remind yourself if need be...and I doubt you'll be faced with having to replace it.

Chris

I HATE 99 S80's, but...

Get into your trunk, and disconnect your battery for about 10 minutes, this generally resets most "non-hard" codes. However, the key "not turning" is not an immobilizer problem. That would be an ignition cylinder problem. Is the car in park? Is the steering wheel locked? Try locking (once) and unlocking the car twice, make certain the car is in park, wiggle the steering wheel, and try again...after reconnecting the battery. If that doesn't work, inquire about the services of a local priest with holy water, and a VooDoo shaman with gris gris. If after all this your ignition seriously will not turn, you'll need to visit a repair shop.

Sorry,

Chris

The car is in park, the steering wheel is locked, but not turned upright, whether that makes a difference(no lectures on crappy female parking techniques,k?) Would his using a different Volvo key by mistake have caused this to happen? I never had any problem since we got it turning the ignition or starting. The only problems ever started last night when I could not get the trunk open. i will try disconnecting the battery and see what happens. I am praying. Thanks for answering quickly.