Hi.
A while ago I had a problem where when the key was insertedthe steering wouldn’t unlock. After abit of playing around disconnecting the Battery for 15 mins cured the problem.
Since then it has happened a few more time but repeatedputting the key in and taking it out again 10 plus times would fix it for a fewdays.
I’ve just gone to start the car and it’s very nearly dead,no life starts when the key is inserted a little bit of noise from the steeringcolumn, one sound that I didn’t like the sound of was a relay arcing! The oiland Brake indicators are on. When I takethe key out these lights stay on!!
I’ve checked the battery that’s fine, little bit of WD40 onthe key doesn’t make any difference.
Please help!
I’ve Googled this problem but nothing!!
S-Type 2002.5 2.5 SE Auto

 

That's an odd one! I'm not 100% sure, but believe the mechanical portion (lock mechanism) is separate from the electrical side (ignition switch). That's how most cars are. If so, I'm perplexed how unhooking the battery permitted the key to finally turn. Maybe that was a coincidence?

The other symptoms sound like the electrical portion is acting up. Wiring diagrams are here if you want to check continuity through the switch:

http://jagrepair.com/images/AutoRepa...42002.50en.pdf