Help !! Ignition Barrell Problem

[tajgill]

Came out of work today and tried to start my 1990 Golf GTi 16v which I just bought on Sunday, and the key won't turn in the ignition.  Put some WD40 down the key hole but nothing.  The key has been sticking since I got it and now it goes in fine but just won't turn.  Any idea's ? 

Car is stuck at my work now until I can find a way to start it, so need some ideas.

Your help is needed.

Thanks.

[Dizzie]

the key has probably worn from the millions of time it's turned in the barrel. really you could do with swapping the barrel and having a brand new key as this is easy to do.

[tajgill]

The key is not the original key, but a copy and a newish looking one.  Does this make any difference and can I get an original VW key cut for this barrel from the dealer ?

Would a new VW key fix the problem or would I have to replace th whole ignition mechanism ?

Thanks,

Taj.

[rubjonny]

Sounds like a cheap barrel/key was used, and its gone already.  The good news is that since it has been replaced recently the housing will probably have a hole in it so you can swap the barrel over easy (you have to drill a small hole in them normally)
If I were you I'd try to get one from another VW in a scrappy, I was lucky enough to find a key & barrel from a MK3, in fact I still have it somewhere I think!

[tajgill]

Thanks for the advice guys, turned out to be the barrell.  Drilled a hole in the lock and pulled out old barrell and replaced it with a new one, with an original VW key !  All working fine, but not an easy job to do.

Thanks,

Taj.