I have a 1993 L Reg Volvo 440 in which suddenly and without warning on monday the steering lock decided to engage and I havent been able to release since!

I have had to have the car towed to a garage and tbh its perplexed both the tow truck driver AND the mechanic!!

1. I can still put the "stick" key into the ignition
2. The key still turns part of the way, as if ready to dis-engage the lock
3. The steering wheel still turns partly again as if to release itself

ANY IDEAS/ SUGGESTIONS?!

The first breakdown "mechanic" (i use this term losely!) said I needed a whole new barrel and it would cost me in excess of £150 to have repaired. When the second mechanic arrived to tow the car, he was completely amazed by the problem - having had the same model etc and had not seen this problem before. On arrival at the garage the mechanic was of the same thought - how the heck had this happened!

So far all I know is that it could be resolved very easily (may be something to do with the electrics) or very costly (as in new parts for the steering column etc)

(To add insult to injury i have just put the car up for sale and its the first time since i bought it 3 years ago that i have had any problems whatsoever. So i have to have this repaired so i can sell it so the cost is immaterial up to a point!)

I would really really appreciate any help - i am on msn for the next hour or so if anyone wants to help - amand01a@hotmail.com

Hi Amanda.

Well meant advice - don't give out your email address like that, in case it's a real sicko nut rather than us safe Volvo nuts reading it. Via the forum, people can send you a personal message without them having to know your email address, so long as you set your profile up right.

On locking/unlocking the steering lock, the ignition swith moves in/out a few mm. When wiggling the steering wheel & trying to turn the ignition key, try also moving the key in & out a little. Whatever you do, don't snap the key in the lock!

Some graphite lock lube in the ignition switch may help.

Good luck.

BB
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