Volkswagen vans we cover
Send the registration so we can confirm the ignition fitted to your specific van.
About Volkswagen ignitions
Our Volkswagen ignition work covers the Transporter, Caddy and Crafter. Each has been built across several generations — many Transporters are also camper conversions — so the ignition fitted varies with the model and year.
A Transporter with a worn key-turn ignition needs different attention from a van with an electronic start system. Tell us the model, year and what the ignition is doing, and we will explain the options for that specific van.
Ignition options for Volkswagen vans
- Mechanical ignition barrel repair or replacement — For vans with a key-turn ignition where the barrel is worn, sticking, seized or damaged.
- Electrical ignition switch replacement — The switch behind the barrel can fail on its own — the key turns but the electrical side does not respond properly.
- Electronic ignition (EIS) work — For vans that use an electronic ignition unit rather than a purely mechanical barrel, including some push-button systems.
- Broken key extraction from the ignition — Removing a snapped blade from the ignition without causing further damage, before a new key is made.
Volkswagen Van Ignition Switch Replacement in Eastleigh
Electrical ignition switch replacement is one of the most common jobs we carry out on Volkswagen vans, particularly the Transporter, Caddy and Crafter. On a Volkswagen with a key-turn ignition, the mechanical barrel is the part the key turns in, while the electrical switch behind it sends power to the van's circuits as the key moves through each position.
If the barrel is worn, you'll usually notice it mechanically: the key is stiff, catches, or won't turn at all. When the switch is at fault, the key often turns freely but nothing happens electrically, or the van loses power or warning lights flicker as the key moves. A flat battery or a wiring problem can cause similar symptoms, so we test and confirm the cause first and only recommend a switch replacement when it's actually needed.
Whether your original key can be kept depends on the van and the fault — we try to keep it wherever possible. If a new key or programming is needed, we will tell you before starting.
Mobile service around Eastleigh
We attend Volkswagen vans at home, at work or on site in Eastleigh and nearby areas. See all areas covered.
What we need for a quote
- Registration, model and year
- Where the van is
- What the ignition is doing, and whether the key turns
- Whether you still have a usable key
Related pages
Volkswagen ignition questions
My VW key turns but nothing happens — do I need a new ignition switch?
Possibly. Switch replacement is a common job for us on Volkswagen vans, but a battery or wiring fault can cause the same symptom. We diagnose the cause before recommending a replacement.
My Transporter is a camper conversion — can you still help?
Yes. The ignition belongs to the base Transporter, so the conversion does not normally change the ignition work. Mention any extra locks separately.