Sorry Don't have the answer but friend complains of the same thing happening to his Golf! I thought he was just imagining it. Any update on cause?
I had the same problem on my jetta and i replace the ignition switch the mechanical part and the electrical finally the probem is gone!! the cost was around 80 dollars....
See Q: How do you remove Steering wheel lock VW golf mk2?
The steering wheel lock lights up in red. What should I do? The electric steering wheel lock lights up in red. What should I do?
The lock sign should go away when the steering wheel lock is disengaged.
try and put your key and shack the steering wheel
If you have a steering lock, that can lock your steering wheel in place, until you use the key in the ignition to unlock it.
Pehaps air in the system and needs to be purged. Turn wheel lock-lock a few times with engine running and power steering reservoir cover removed Check power steering fluid
4.5
turn steering wheel lock to lock several times.
Put the key in and move the steering wheel until the key can turn
Jiggle the steering wheel as you turn the key. I've owned several cars in which the steering wheel lock wouldn't let the key turn if there was any pressure on the steering wheel lock.
Yes it is sensible.
If you have the key and it won't turn the lock cylinder try jiggling the steering wheel while turning the key. If the steering wheel lock is merely jammed that should loosen it enough to turn the key. On the other hand if you don't have the key or the lock itself is jammed you may want to replace the lock cylinder.