ignition switch/lock cylinder question?

I replaced the ignition switch on my 96 passat tdi and drove it 700 miles and it quit starting.... I can push start it easily. When I remove the key from the ignition, the radio keeps playing. If I push the ignition cylinder where the key goes in, it springs out a bit and the radio shuts off. Does this mean that I should have replaced the lock cylinder also?? do I have to do the whole process again to replace the lock cylinder? any info would be greatly appreciated....Thx

Probably......I replaced my ignition switch and two weeks later started frying starters......and I THINK it was because of the (original) lock cylinder.......mine is also a 1996 B4.......(better a radio staying on than a fried starter)......

I've never replaced the ignition switch, but I have been having the radio thing happen for years. I just have to remember to push the cylinder to get the radio off, otherwise it kills the battery. It may or may not be related.....

So how do I avoid key & switch problems?

Seems I must change out my ignition switch that has become faulty.

Would like to keep the same key.

Except for your all's common horror stories I thought I had a plan to replace just the switch.
What do you recommend? Buy an OEM switch & key set, rebuild the switch with polishing the contacts? Find a used keyset?

Replace just the electrical half of the lock/switch set.
Contacts receed as they heat up and melt back into the plastic, polishing won't work.
New is $10.

I just had to replace the key cylinder. I also replaced the ignition switch, at the same time, since I was in there. I had replaced it 2 years, prior.

1) Follow lug nut's suggestions.
2) The cylinder can be rekeyed to your current key set. The black bezel needs to be dremel cut in 2 places. I had a local, reputable locksmith in town do it. Once installed, the cuts are not visible.

Tony