locked ignition

1996 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT
6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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SHAGER01
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
accidentally connected cables incorrectly when trying to jump-start another vehicle, now the vehicle that needed the jump-start does not allow the key to turn in the ignition
Jan 9, 2011 at 7:47 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 9,606 POSTS
Sounds like there might be some torque on the steering wheel not allowing the key to release from the steering lock, try turning the key whilst turning the steering wheel, and turn the steering wheel with some vigor, it might take a bit of force to get it to come loose.
Jan 10, 2011 at 3:48 AM
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SHAGER01
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  • 2 POSTS
Thanks for the reply. We were able to turn the steering wheel but the key would still not budge. We tried resetting the electrical system by unhooking the battery and then rehooking it. Initially we got the key to turn, but when we hooked the cables up to jump-start the car, then the key would not turn again. After checking other ideas on the internet, we tried tapping the key with the handle of a screwdriver which did work after many taps. So the key not turning and the incorrect cable connection when initially trying to jump-start the car may have been coincindental. We will check it again today.
Jan 10, 2011 at 1:04 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 9,606 POSTS
Thank you for the great feed back, that helps us all here at 2CarPros, cheers!
Jan 10, 2011 at 2:34 PM
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