Key stops at 'Accessories' - won't go to 'Start'

[cvvick]

This morning when I tried to start my 1974 tii, the key would only go to 'Accessories' and no amount of jiggling would move it to 'Start'.  Not sure what could cause this.

 

Do I need to replace the lock cylinder? Perhaps lubrication  (graphite? silicone?)

 

It looks like this is common problem.  @mike self you mentioned you have an article on how to fix could you send it to me?

Edited November 18, 2023 by cvvick
Added request for article

['76mintgrün'02]

I've had my key not want to turn but then got it to move while rocking the steering wheel back and forth.  It is like the wheel locking mechanism interferes with the key rotation.  It'd be nice if that was your problem.  Maybe you've already tried that.

Tom

[RogerRamJet77]

I have had this issue and it was worn tumblers in the cylinder. 

[Son of Marty]

Are you turning the key to the off position between try's? German cars of this era have a lock out so you can't engage the starter with the engine running, but you probably knew that.

[2002iii]

Always use graphite to lubricate locks.

 

It could be the electrical ignition switch coming apart inside. 

[Buckeye]

If everything else fails as suggested above alternative is to remove steering shaft out and lubricated that block is welded onto steering shaft. That welded piece is responsible for locking steering along with mechanism inside lock itself. It is extra work, but it works if the lock is not culprit. Picture below is from another post for reference. I did this job recently but I did not take any pictures.

 

 

[visionaut]

1 hour ago, Son of Marty said:

Are you turning the key to the off position between try's? German cars of this era have a lock out

Otherwise known as:

 

If you are Halt and want to Fahrt,

From Halt to Start before you Fahrt,

but if no Start, no Fahrt ,

then you shall Halt to Start to Fahrt again
 

🙃

[HobieDog]

I had that issue.  Graphite lube and more cycles helped (my car had been sitting for awhile), but I also learned on my particular car that it’s more likely to bind if the key is inserted all the way…if I put the key in the ignition and pull it back out just a smidge (other terms come to mind…) it always turns fine.  Probably worn tumblers and/or a bad key cut at some point.  

 

Anyway, try the lube first.  Then jiggle it around and move it in and out. That’s what she said anyway.