1998 2.0L T4 doors & ignition lock replacement

[paravion]

Hi all,

I've recently purchased a 1998 T4 2.0L VW and it's locks are pretty shot. They key is really worn and is close to breaking, and I do not have a spare. Out of nerves, I'm not keeping valuables in the car and don't lock it...

So, what is the best way to get a new set of keys, and replace the ignition, side door, rear door and passenger/driver door locks? I'm presuming if I take it to a VW dealer this is going to be an extremely expensive exercise. What are my options, if any?

Thanks so much!

-p

[Umai Naa!!]

A locksmith should be able to rebuild the locks to new for you, and perhaps sort the keys out as well.

Worth giving one a call.

[paravion]

A locksmith should be able to rebuild the locks to new for you, and perhaps sort the keys out as well.

Worth giving one a call.

Thanks, didn't realise locksmiths other than VW ones could do it!

[AALocksmiths]

You would be best off starting with getting a new key cut, get it cut to code and not a duplicate of your worn key. You will probably find this will fix a lot of the issues especially in the locks that don't get used as much, like boot, passenger side and glove box.

The door locks do come apart easily if it needs to be rekeyed but the ignitions do not, getting a new one though is not worth is as it will cost $600+ just for that.

[Sunny43.5]

The other alternative is to fit an aftermarket remote locking system , I have done this to 3 previous T4's . You can piggyback onto the original locking rods for all the front doors and even the side door and tailgate . The only issue with the tailgate is you need to disconnect the original locking rod from the outer handle it then becomes part of the full remote locking system . Then you will need to fit a side door bridging connector which is used to transfer the signal from the body to the sliding door they are cheap around $25 . If all your doors do unlock and lock either by hand this will work , if your doors already have a one door with key to open and lock then a remote locking system will be all you need their are two methods one which attaches to the original factory locking rod and then operate all the doors via that one . The other is in some cases you can wire into the factory central locking loom and turn the key operated into a full remote . As for the ignition lock as long as you have a key that still works the ignition I would get a new one cut and if they have the correct style they can copy the old code and transfer it to the new one . I had to replace the engine and full wiring loom on my sons T4 it was originally a 2.4 non turbo diesel engine so I transplanted a 2.5 petrol and full running gear into his , the only problem was the mongrel would not start . JMac a forum sponsor told me it was that the old key code would not talk to the new petrol ecu so I just had the key from the donor van copied and it worked $20 spent at Mr Minit at the local shopping centre and took all of 2 minutes to do .This is the company who I purchased the kits from .Cruise Controls Australia | Auto Accessories Brisbane | Autostrada

[stumelb]

I have just recently got a T4 , previous owner lost keys , hes bought another second hand ignition with key and 2 matching door handles , im guessing for slider and I have barn doors , he hasnt fitted them , but said to me that hes bought to replace them as it was a work van with many tools etc .I dont know if mine has remote locking by key but theres seems t be an alarm light on the dash