[Closed] Any old school Passat mechanics around?

Is it the right key.

'Is it the right key'

Yes, something has broken in the barrel I think

Sounds like a job for Anton Chigurh

have you bought Molgrips car by any chance?

I posted on a Passat forum and by a fluke we've got it going again. Someone suggested using two hands to unweight the steering lock on the column at the wheel and with a third hand turning the key. A little vertical pressure on the key allowed it to turn, the barrel must be worn, the car has done 225,000 miles.

the car has done 225,000 miles.

Not bad, mine had 235K on when I sold it then wished I hadn't.

If you have any more probs that you think could be inherent with Passats/VW's/Audi's Peter, let me know, I have a contact who is exeptional.

Don't be mean and treat it to a new barrel.

A reason to leave key in ignition....

If it’s anything like my similar aged vw polo, the lock innards are made out of cheese. Not had my ignition go yet, but about once a year one of the door locks will go. Luckily the parts cost about 99p so i’ve stocked up. Hopefully yours will be a similar issue/solution.

If you have any more probs that you think could be inherent with Passats/VW's/Audi's Peter, let me know, I have a contact who is exeptional

Thanks, I'll have a bash at most things, I'm not so hot on the diagnostics.

Don't be mean and treat it to a new barrel.

The car really owes us nothing, I'll price one up.

Sounds like the steering lock was under load from the wheel angle , and jiggling the wheel released the pressure .
My 312k passat had zero problems with the ignition key, neither did my 225k one.
They used to be made out of steel, and a small rectangle 3mm x 15mm would drop into a slot in the steering coloumn. Inserting key releases deadbolt so the column can turn
Thay also used to be held on with shear bolts, so you may find yourself using a hack saw blade , or recripricating saw in a very awkward place