A/T - Can't Remove Key From Ign/Can't Lock Car/DTC 00230
37 08 122010094/7
November 25, 2008.
Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 37 number 08-08 dated September 30, 2008 for reasons listed below.
37 Ignition key cannot be removed when transmission is in park or cannot lock vehicle
Condition
- The ignition key cannot be removed from the switch, despite selecting shift position P.
- Or, if equipped with advanced key system, the vehicle cannot be locked by remote control after exiting.
- DTC 00230 (Switch for gearbox position P-F305, disruption/short circuit to positive/ground, sporadic) may be logged in the 05-vehicle authorization system.
Technical Background
The selector lever adjustment P sporadically is not recognized. Therefore, the ignition key cannot be removed from the switch or the locking of the vehicle is prevented.
Production Solution
- Modified selector mechanism from VIN 4F_5N037400.
- In MY 06, unit selector mechanism introduced from VIN 4F_6N116844.
- Switch for gearbox position P (F305) changed from week 16/08, VIN: 4F_8N138012.
Service
1. Check for other DTCs that may be logged in other control units, such as ABS, vehicle authorization system, engine, gearbox, etc. Address any DTCs according to Guided Fault Finding.
NOTE: Lubricants and oils can contaminate the micro switches (F305) and lead to long-term damage. Do not apply lubricants such as silicon oil to the gearshift housing, even if the gearshift housing appears to be stiff.
2. If this complaint occurs on vehicles with Multitronic transmission (CVT) in combination with (gearbox) DTC P0706 (Transm. Range Sensor Circ. Range/Performance), then:
- If the vehicle is model year 2006, replace the Transmission Control Module.
- If the vehicle is model year 2007 or newer, open a TAC report with an attachment of the DTCs. Reference this Technical Service Bulletin and contact the Technical Assistance Center.
3. If no other DTCs are logged, or all other DTCs are addressed, proceed as follows:
Case A - Vehicles produced before VIN 4F_5N037400
Replace the complete selector mechanism.
Case B - Vehicles produced between VIN 4F_5N037400 and VIN 4F_ 8N138012
1. Read the DTC memory. If DTC is logged in Access/Start Control System group 05, follow Guided Fault Finding.
2. Carry out the checks described in the attachment (Checklist for A6 Transmission Selector Mechanism). Record every step in the checklist.
Tip: With all complaints in connection with the A6 selector mechanism after VIN 4F_5N037400, the attached checklist must be completed.
3. Repair if necessary.
4. If no problem is found, replace the wiring loom with micro switch 4F0-971-697.
5. Attach the completed checklist and VAS printouts to the repair order. Warranty-requested documents received without checklist and VAS printouts will be denied payment.
Case C - Vehicles produced after VIN 4F_ 8N138012
Open a TAC contact. Attach the GFF log. Make reference to this TSB number in the TAC contact and call the Technical Assistance Center for assistance.
Warranty
When procedure applies to vehicles under warranty, use the following:
Required Parts and Tools
Use ETKA to find VIN-specific parts references.
Additional Information
All parts and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Department and service manuals for the latest information.