Swapping ignition barrel from '94 Valver to '96 Anni? Igniton switch replacement

[Shady Pioneer]

Is it possible? I've found a guide online that makes it easy (so it says) to change them without taking everything off, and as I don't believe it to be my ignition switch which is the problem, I imagine it's the barrel as it is loose. It even keeps the engine running when the key is out! 

[leegt5]

You need to drill a hole in the metal barrel housing to release the barrel.. This is from a Seat Ibiza but its the same on the mk3 Golf..



If you able to remove the key and it still runs I'd say its more likely the switch rather than the barrel.

[Shady Pioneer]

Cheers pal. Good seeing a picture of it for reference (guide only described it) but the main thing is will I have a problem with using the barrel from the 1994 Golf in the 1996 Golf? Something to do with coded keys?

[leegt5]

I dont think you will have a problem using the different barrels as they are only mechanical.

The coded part clips round the metal housing so as long as you use the corresponding old key chip in the new key you shouldn't have a problem. See the black plastic part around the barrel. Thats the coded part to the key. Again picture from a Seat Ibiza but is the same in the mk3 Golf.



To drill that hole to release the barrel you won't be able to drill it with the barrel housing still in the car.

[Wayne]

The anni key will be coded, not sure if you can swap your chip into the 94 key.

[Shady Pioneer]

I don't think the old key for the valver was coded? Bit of a pain that it can't be done with it still on the car, is it because it's an awkward angle?

[Wayne]

I don't think the old key for the valver was coded? Bit of a pain that it can't be done with it still on the car, is it because it's an awkward angle?

Yes angle etc, no way you will drill out whilst it is still on the car.

[leegt5]

If the 94 key isn't coded then you will need a coded key and barrel.

As wayne says its not possible to drill the release hole with it in the car...

You sure its the barrel and not the switch? I think you can get the switch out with the column still in the car though its been a while since I did the Ibiza new barrel housing.

I believe the easiest way to get the barrel or switch off the car is to remove the column from the car which is alot easier than it sounds.

[Shady Pioneer]

If the 94 key isn't coded then you will need a coded key and barrel.

As wayne says its not possible to drill the release hole with it in the car...

You sure its the barrel and not the switch? I think you can get the switch out with the column still in the car though its been a while since I did the Ibiza new barrel housing.

I believe the easiest way to get the barrel or switch off the car is to remove the column from the car which is alot easier than it sounds.

When I go to turn on the engine, I have to lift up the key slightly to start the engine. I've read DIYs for replacing the switch and it seems a very complicated procedure, mainly using a 2 grip puller (which I don't have) and needed a very small phillips screwdriver (jewellers kit).

If you know an easier way without having to use a 2 grip puller please share. 

[neil1780]

I would say it was the switch mate the plastic wears away and the barrel doesn't turn it like it should.

The way I done it was disconnect all the wires from the column then undo the joint under the pedals. Then get a cold chisel and put it between the joint and hit it. This loosens the column and allows you to pull the wheel and column out.