Audi Logic

there has been several posts referring to ignition switch problems so I wanted to inform you guys about an issue that is not in the FAQ (at least I didn't see it anywhere)...

(1) this issue is for those who replaced their switch and the radio no longer turns on/off with ignition

(2) those who have a hard time turning the key in the ignition even without the steering lock

(3) those who seem to be going through switches like condoms at a frat party...

there is a small piston located inside the base of the mechanical section of the switch that may be missing (see item 1)
or not aligned or inserted correctly (items 2 and 3)
its chrome and looks like this
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/61186/piston.jpg">

this piston is what causes the switch to break as in the picture below if it is not inserted properly back into position.

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/24553/switch.jpg">

It may also be missing in some cases which will not allow the switch to control the radio on/off function. This happens when the switch is removed and the pin is already loose and falls out or someone turns the key with the switch out of place which makes it fall out.

inside the back of the mechanical side of the switch is a shaft that looks like this
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/61186/ign.jpg">
the piston goes into the half circle and down into a small hole at the back of the mechanism which leads to the key.

on the ignition switch you can see the other part of the circle (highlighted in red)
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/61186/igns.jpg">

The Flaw in all the switches (old, new, factory or aftermarket) is free space which allows the small piston to move out of position, when this happens on the old style switch it breaks the tip of the switch away as in the second picture above.
On the newer switches they used a stronger material on the tip so it would not break as easy but now they break internally, which is just as bad.

So if you plan on doing this job be sure to check that the little piston is in place before you put the new switch in, also be sure that it moves freely..

Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah


oh I think I'm done yapping

snowman '92 100

Dude, thanks for the post. My radio doesn't turn off with the switch, too. I'll have to look into it

EDIGREG

Same! I'll look into it, thanks

Audi Logic

to see inside where the switch mounts use a small mirror and a flashlight

Pacs Legend

so basically your saying before you install a new switch just make sure the piston is actually there, and is firm and moves up and down, but not side to side? because i just replaced mine in jan. and its already bad.
Mark

Audi Logic

Pretty much! if its not there you may have to rig something or live without

itzed

My radio turns off if you push the switch in w/the key, but not if you don't.

S6 4RiNGS

I went through 3 switches from AutoHauzAZ before I bought one OEM from the stealer!

DM

I just put in my third switch, what makes the dealer one better?

BigMouse

thanks to the guy at America's Tire Company who didn't know to turn the key off again after the engine didn't start on the first crank.