Car has died - ignition switch failure?

[Givemecoffee]

Hi Everyone,

Our Mk IV GTI stalled and could not be restarted this morning while backing out of the driveway, symptoms are:

-Warning lights showing on dash regardless of key position (key in ignition or removed). I had to disconnect the battery to stop it running flat.
-When turning the key to start the car, there is no "spring back" at the starting position, and no cranking.

I'm guessing the ignition switch has failed, can anyone suggest any options for us? I would like to pull the key barrel out and maybe lube or otherwise repair the ignition switch? A small amount of research on the web suggests pulling the steering wheel off to get access to the switch, does anyone have experience in this?

At least it happened at home and not on the motorway or in the city somewhere, so no tow required.

Any help would be much appreciated!

[Givemecoffee]

Well, I got stuck into the car today as I need to get it running for work tomorrow.
The culprit is the lock cylinder (between the ignition barrel and the ignition switch), the small tab which turns the switch has broken off inside the cylinder and doesn't turn the switch anymore.

Here's a link if anyone needs it in the future:

VWVortex.com - HOWTO replace mk4 ignition lock cylinder?

I haven't replaced the cylinder yet, as the security bolts holding it on to the column need to be ground off. I'll source a new cylinder next week. At the moment I'm using a small screwdriver to start the car with the key installed to turn off the immobiliser.

Cheers

[Sharkie]

Well, now confirmed this has happened to me as well. Pulled the ignition switch out last night and viola .... there was the broken tab .....