How to change ignition lock cylinder?

[LexKYBioTDI]

I have been have immobilizer trouble with my 2003 Jetta. Had the keys reprogrammed. Stranded again a week later. Dealership ordered a new lock cylinder/key reader for me. Is it possible for me to replace the cylinder myself so I don't have to tow it back to the dealership? If so how do you remove the cylinder, and is there anything I need to watch out for?

Thanks.

 

[LexKYBioTDI]

Update.

I figured out how to remove the old ignition lock cylinder. I replaced it with the new one. Still has the same issue. Car starts but immediately shuts itself off, with key symbol flashing on the dash.

Maybe the keys need to be programmed to the new cylinder?

 

[BlownBusa]

Put the key in, turn it to the run position, but don't try to start... Walk away for bout 20 minutes... Come back and start the car! Tah-Dah...
And if that doesn't work now that I think about it & yours is a 2003...
http://wiki.ross-tech.com/wiki/inde...r_have_and_which_Procedures_are_applicable.3F

 

[LexKYBioTDI]

Update.

Had it towed back to the dealership to have the keys programmed. Didn't work. They say there is a short in the instrument cluster that won't allow the keys to be programmed. Need to change the instrument cluster.

Is this something that can be worked around with an aftermarket chip?

 

[PDJetta]

There is a way to simply disable the imobilizer, but I think the dealer may have to do it.

--Nate

 

[LexKYBioTDI]

The dealership claims that the immobilizer cannot be disabled.

 

[Jackilus]

Did you check the Vortex?


Blue headlights suck.

 

[yetimus]

TD Tuning will do an immobilizer delete for $120.