Why won't the ignition cylinder turn?

Asked by Sherrie Apr 10, 2015 at 09:04 PM about the 1974 Volkswagen Beetle

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I have a 1974 beetle. At the time of purchase, it was in running condition. After sitting for
months on end, the key will not turn. Is there a trick, or what is most advisable on a
limited budget.

1 Answer
4,475

Christopher answered 9 years ago

Did you park the car with the wheels turned, or under any tension, when the key was removed? Sometimes there's just tension and you have to gently turn the steering wheel to the left or right as you attempt to turn the key, unlocking the steering at the same time.

1 people found this helpful.
Mark helpful

Your Answer:

Related Questions

  • Why won't the ignition cylinder turn? 1 Answer

    I have a 1974 beetle. At the time of purchase, it was in running condition. After sitting for months on end, the key will not turn. Is there a trick, or what is most advisable on a limited budget.

    1974 Volkswagen Beetle

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

  • HELP!!! Cannot turn off my 2012 Beetle, key won't come off the ignition cylinder 20 Answers

    My car is running, cannot take the key out of the ignition. Called the dealer and they said it will cost from $500 to $700 to replace the cylinder. What are my options, can a locksmith help me for le...

    2012 Volkswagen Beetle

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

  • The key to my 2006 New Beetle TDI won't turn in the ignition 6 Answers

    This has happened a few times before and all I would have to do is turn the wheel at the same time as I turned the key. Now the steering wheel is locked and I can't get it to turn at all. I called a m...

    2006 Volkswagen Beetle TDI

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

  • Key won't turn when put in ignition 2 Answers

    Help! My 2016 turbo beetle with 4500 miles has been giving me a fit. The key will go into the ignition but not turn over. This doesn't always happen but when it does it will go on for 10to 25 minut...

    2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T S

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

  • I own a 2007 Beetle and the last two days the key won't turn in the ignition. 2 Answers

    2007 Beetle convertible. Key won't turn in the ignition. When I go to turn the steering wheel it locks and then I have to rock the steering wheel back and forth until it starts. I've owned the car f...

    2007 Volkswagen Beetle 2.5L Convertible

    -

    Maintenance & Repair

Shortcuts

Search Volkswagen Beetle Questions

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    tenspeed
    Reputation
    3,220
  • #2
    Chris Billings
    Reputation
    2,950
  • #3
    Deathjam4
    Reputation
    2,150
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Ford Mustang
52 Great Deals out of 1,258 listings starting at $4,995
Used Honda Civic
173 Great Deals out of 3,620 listings starting at $440
Used Chevrolet Corvette
26 Great Deals out of 1,031 listings starting at $15,871
Used Volkswagen Golf
22 Great Deals out of 431 listings starting at $3,987
Used Ford F-150
311 Great Deals out of 15,205 listings starting at $1,712
Used BMW 3 Series
68 Great Deals out of 1,168 listings starting at $1,795
Used Toyota Corolla
115 Great Deals out of 1,977 listings starting at $2,795

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.