[s-cars] Ignition lock won't return from "start" to "run" position

[weski at verizon.net]

Tom,

Here is the best link for information regarding the ignition switch:

http://forums.quattroworld.com/s4s6/msgs/15184.phtml

Mine has been doing the same thing for a year or so now too (on my 3rd 
or 4th switch - nice to see someone else's S6 running towards 300k miles 
0 I'm at 277k).  Make sure you get a factory Audi part for this not an 
aftermarket replacement as I've heard stories of those only lasting 20k 
miles or so.

You should be able to replace the switch without replacing the key 
mechanism and thus you should be able to still have a single key for 
doors and ignition.

While you are in there: check your bulbs in the instrument cluster and 
upgrade to 2W if you haven't already.

I believe the factory procedure is to have you remove the steering wheel 
(to remove the instrument cluster) but I've done it without removing the 
steering wheel without any problem.  Put the wheel in the lowest and 
most pulled out position before starting and cover the steering column 
with a towel so you don't scratch it with the instrument cluster as you 
disconnect it.

Paul

95 S6 277k miles and running strong as a daily driver

07 VW Touareg V10 TDI

98 BMW 328i


On 9/17/2016 4:22 PM, Tom Rodriguez wrote:
> My ignition key will not spring back from the "start" position to the "run"
> position after the engine starts.  This causes a host of problems if the car
> is driven in this condition, since the starter motor is still spinning and
> the electronics (lights, power windows, HVAC, etc.) are disabled.  I have
> learned to manually turn the key ever so slightly back to the left to the
> "run" position after the engine has started, being careful not to overshoot
> the "run" position or the engine turns off and I have to start over.
>
>   
>
> I'm guessing the problem is a worn ignition lock cylinder.  Can anyone
> confirm this based on my description and your own BTDT?  I looked on
> Quattroworld and found the post on "How to replace the ignition lock
> cylinder assembly".  Also, I assume that a new lock assembly will require a
> new key, so I'll have one key for the ignition and another for the door
> locks.  Correct?
>
>   
>
> Since the process involves removing the instrument cluster is there anything
> else I should for preventive maintenance while I'm in there?  Should I
> replace the starter switch even though the current one (the original) seems
> to be working fine?
>
>   
>
> I'll appreciate any feedback.
>
>   
>
> Tom Rodriguez
>
> '95 S6, 273K miles
>
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