Burglary: Home Invasion & Prevention Tips

Hi,

'I had my car broken into yesterday. The central locking was unlocked, and the vehicle was additionally secured with an ADAC steering wheel lock. Fortunately, nothing is missing except for some parking tickets (there are no parking meters in Vienna) and two screwdrivers from the glove compartment. The radio (which I always take with me) was left inside. There are no visible external damages.'

'The passenger-side door lock is no longer working. I had difficulty inserting the key (which has smooth surfaces with a milled groove on both sides), it felt like it was catching, and after a half-turn to the right, the cylinder locks up and can no longer be turned or unlocked.'

Can you get an identical new lock based on the key number, or can the internal components be replaced or exchanged?

What's the best course of action for me now, and how can I better protect myself in the future?

Best regards from Vienna.

Georg.

Using your vehicle's VIN, you can order a new ignition cylinder from a dealer. You may also need a new housing for the ignition cylinder. It's best to remove it and inspect it to see what's broken.
I believe almost all the parts are identical to those of the Golf 4.

Good evening!

'My mother's (G4 ALH) car was also broken into last week, using the same method (her VW navigation system was stolen without the key).'
The G4 door cylinder costs approximately 40€ from a reputable supplier.
I don't want to give you incorrect information about the cost or installation of the modifications.
It is opened using the same method as with the G3.
A partially modified key blank is inserted into the lock. A small lever, similar to a wagon wheel spoke, is welded to the end of the key. Then, force is applied to the locking cylinder using this lever to break it open.
VW's alarm system is a waste of money with this method, because the car thinks it's being opened with a key, and the alarm system is disarmed.

Best regards, Kapernaum.

The only solution is to remove the locks if you have a factory-fitted immobilizer (FFB). Simply get the rear door handles from a scrapyard and install them. It's only a problem if the FFB stops working...