Hi All

 

This may have been covered elsewhere, but here's the issue.

 

As is common with VAG ignitions, mine has developed the 'key won't turn' issue.  I've researched the problem online and have now stripped the whole of the steering column to get to the steering lock/ignition assembly, and have separated the ignition switch and barrel from the steering lock.  It's the lock that's failed completely, and a new one is on the way.  Now the questions:

 

If I put the existing ignition switch and barrel into the new lock assembly, will the car be ok with this.

 

If I did replace the barrel and switch as well (meaning new keys), can I reprogramme to the car's computer myself or is this a specialist job.  It should be something that can be done by the owner, but I guess people stealing cars and replacing ignitions is an issue.  Having said that, I suppose you wouldn't be able to use a new key manually on the doors/boot without replacing the barrels on those too.

 

This job was a b*****d to do first time (thank you internet).  I did break a bit of plastic but was able to superglue back together (not a critical part).

 

Thanks in advance for any help.

You can keep your existing key fob, just swap the blade with that of the new lock.

Cheers.  I guess that applies if you're just changing the barrel not the switch?

Ok folks, car is back up and running.  Got the new steering lock assembly at 2.30pm and all back together before dark.  Did have the yellow steering wheel warning light come on, but disappeared after a few hundred yards.  Just a quick question:

 

I managed to put the steering wheel back on just off central, and the car pulls to the left which I'd not really noticed before (not driven it for a while, but wife does).  Is it conceivable that the work I've done on replacing the lock and the steering wheel being off centre has anything to do with the pulling to the left - or is it simply a case of straightening the steering wheel and having the alignment checked (+ tyres/pressures, etc).  It's not bad and there's no steering wheel shake, it only happens when you let go of the wheel (briefly)

 

Cheers all.