paulsclassic

My key doesn't want to turn the ignition on in my 96 uk classic wagon. Have tried getting new key cut but still same problems, key won't turn unless I'm lucky and catch it right. Any ideas or new barrel and key needed?

smiffywhu

This happened to my classic a few years back. I ended up with getting a new barrel and key from my local breakers yard, fitted for roughly £100. RAC took me to them.

paulsclassic

From what i've read its because the key has become worn? £100 not cheap, has anyone done this themselves and is it a difficult job?

smiffywhu

My key got stuck in the barrel so it's a slightly different issue to yours. As repair bills go I was delighted with only a £100 bill for parts and labour.

bigsigh

iTrader: (4)

no idea if there is an immobiliser in the '96 UK car, but if not and the key doesnt need coded, then the barrell swap is very straight forward.

a lock set should be about £40 from a breaker/ebay

paulsclassic

Yes slighty different. At the moment I can manipulate the key/barrel to get it to turn but I'm guessing it won't be long before I won't be able to do that! Thanks for your reply

paulsclassic

I have an aftermarket immoboliser independent of the key; so hopefully just a case of changing the barrel without touching anything else like the wiring etc? I've seen a sets on ebay, some with and some without wiring and connectors? Can the barrel on its own be changed? Thanks for your help!

stonejedi

iTrader: (51)

Common problem on early classic's the key wearing the barrel down as well as the lock out,Happened to my wife's car went on ebay and got a new key and lock set,or breakers should have a few unworn sets lying about.SJ.

paulsclassic

Thanks for your comments. Did you replace yourself? Was it just the barrel lock mechanism you had to replace (think these can be removed from the cylinder by pressing in a recess pin when the key is in and turned a little?) or do I have to replace the whole thing and re-plug the ignition loom etc?

stonejedi

iTrader: (51)

As you said,just remove the faulty barrel and exchange with the new one and key.SJ.

paulsclassic

Thanks for your reply and help

stonejedi

iTrader: (51)

No worries mate.SJ.