Ignition key/barrel problem

[insane]

Hi all
on my MK3 the ignition key and barrel seem like they have both worn down and i? have trouble starting? the car unless i give the key? a good HARD wiggel whilst turning
also the whole case bit around this iginition is lose,. and the only bolt that seems like it would tighten it, is a screw with no head to turn
also i have tried using the spare key, but this appers to be a very bad copy someone has made at some stage and although it works slighty better
it still doesn't solve problem,

so any advice on best plan of action to take?
i'm thinking i'm going to have to replace the barrel and key?
or should i replace just the barrel? or look into the replacing all the car locks save me having loads of keys

anyone else been in same boat? advice most apperciated

many thanx
all the best
Ben
 

[bolland]

Take the plastic cover off under the barrel, then spray loads of WD40 through it.
See if that improves things.

[VeeDubGTI16v]

i had a similar problem when i replaced my ignition barrel for a gsf one, the part at the back of the barrel that turns the ignition switch actually wore down so much it wouldnt grip the switch so i put the vag bit on the new lock barrel, dunno if yours is a replacement

another example of gsf sh!t, they dont even use good quality metal

[K REG MK 2 GTI]

sound like just the ignition switch i have replaced loads of these for simaler problems

[rubjonny]

VW can cut you a brand new key, you just need to give them the lock number.  I think its stamped on the lock housing somewhere, ask a VW parts monkey

[insane]

Cheers for info all
all sorted now. it was the ignition switch, it had totally worn down
but what a nightmare getting to the screw to get it out, you have to take steering wheel and coloumn off, just to get to one tiny screw,
but at least a brand new part only cost me a tenner