Key can be removed without turning off the engine
 

On my 1987 Carrera I can remove the key without turning off the egine.
Anybody knows what should be done in this case?
Is it the key? Or is it the ignition lock?

Probably the steering lock internal tab is broken and doesn't turn the electrical switch below it.

Is your key excessively worn? I had an old Toyota 4Runner who's key would do the same thing. Got a new key made (from the key code) and it wouldn't come out.

DO you mean the key can be removed without turning off the ignition, or the ignition can be turner off and key removed without turning off the engine?

I assume the former. in this case it is wear of the key and tumblers in the ignition cylinder. you could disassemble the ignition switch and replace the tumblers and or have a key cut to code to reestablish the original tolerances.

My key also does this. I can remove it while it is in the "ON" position. Car of course continues to run because in these old tractors the key isn't doing too much besides aligning the tumblers.
In my 2005 Mercedes the key is coded to the DME and the VIN digitally. I see nothing wrong with the old fashioned setup but then again I've never had my car stolen.

My key doesn't look too worn either. I suspect something in the ignition lock is worn instead but haven't decided to worry about it yet.

Operationally it isn't really a problem; till you're out running gravel roads in an old rear wheel drive Corolla, you over cook a corner and end up in someones front yard backwards with the engine stalled, and the key has miraculously jumped out of the ignition and into the abyss of the floorboards, and your trying to find it before the porch lights come on, and the homeowner comes out.

wear in the lock - maybe just not worry

but you could test it in all 3 parts of Belgium (esp. des Allemagnes part) and see if it is consistent...

My 74 did the same. I got used to it and never let it bother me.

Heck, I can remove the key while the engine is running down the road. Its been doing it for 33 years now.
No concerns about it.

A friend of mine locked his keys in his 914. I pulled out my 911 key and opened his door.

I don't know if my friend was happy or upset.:cool: