Starting issues

QI have a slight problem with a 2003 VW Passat 1.9 PD. Occasionally, when I have stalled in traffic, if I turn the key to restart, the key just turns 360° in the ignition barrel. All the dashboard lights go out and nothing is working. If I take out the key and put it back in, then try, the key again turns 360° and has no effect. After maybe three or four attempts, everything returns to normal. This only happens when the car stalls, not under normal starting conditions. Pete Lynam

AThe problem you are having is that the key and barrel are not connecting with the ignition switch. The fault may be at either end of the system, but as the key will turn 360° it is most likely the lock barrel which is faulty. A replacement can be obtained separately.

Replacement involves first disconnecting the battery, then undoing the shrouding around the steering column. Next, the column switches need to be removed – this will require the steering wheel and airbag to be taken off.

The ignition barrel comes complete with the immobiliser reading coil and the connection to this must be removed first. Place the key in the lock and turn to position 2 (drive). Looking at the face of the ignition barrel, you should see a small hole at the 7 o’clock position. Insert a length of strong steel wire of 1.2mm diameter into this hole to release the lock securing lever; the lock barrel should now slide out. Once it’s removed, you should be able to see the fault that it causing your problem – this is most likely be in the form of a small broken section of lock, barrel or switch.

If the problem is the electrical part of the switch, this is secured by two screws. Before removing these, you'll need to clean the anti-tamper paint from the screw heads.