Volvo Maintenance Hints for 7xx/9xx - Bill Garland's Nuclear ...

Ignition Key Won't Withdraw or Won't Turn. 760-Specific Symptom. [Inquiry:] My ignition key in my 89 760T is stuck
in the cylinder (which I removed from the steering column with surprising ease). It all started with an erratic "start"
condition. I attempted to clean the ignition switch with aerosol contact cleaner but the electric portion of the ignition
switch is physically seperate from the key/tumbler area. The key goes in, but the key doesn't come out. [Response:
Bob] The most painless solution would be to order a coded lock cylinder from the dealer and just replace it. You will also
avoid the eventual "key won't turn" problem 760's are prone to. When that happens, you have to drill out the tumblers in
order to replace the cylinder. Pick up a NEW cylinder and switch and be happy. By the way, if you don't mind having a
separate key for the ignition, a non matching cylinder can be had quicker and a little cheaper.
Neutral Switch Problems. [Inquiry] Not only is the key stuck in the ignition, but the steering wheel lock won't lock. Wheel
turns freely; no feeling in the key like it's trying to drop in. [Response: Roy Key] The problem is likely in your neutral
safety switch. Are you sure the gear shift was put back into neutral? Check that first. I have seen this before and was
able to disconnect a cable that goes into the back of the ignition lock assembly that comes from the neutral safety
switch. Just pull on the cable and it will pop out, then a clicking sound, then the key will be allowed to complete its
rotation and will come out.
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