If you have original locks and keys for your Vanagon, you locate the lock code off one of the locks. Easiest is the driver's side door handle. Or screw is all it takes. 

Take the code to a locksmith and have them cut you a new key. I use Listmember Steve at Steve's Lock Shop.

 I'll bet your key is worn rather than the rear hatch lock cylinder. Afterall, you use that key for all the locks and unlike the hatch only gets used once in a while. Less likely would be worn wafers in your hatch lock. 

I've got new hatch locks with and without new steel rubberheaded keys for sale, in case someone is looking.

Cheers,

BenT

sent from my electronic leash

On Feb 27, 2011, at 7:13 PM, Edward Maglott <emaglott3@GMAIL.COM> wrote:

> I have long had trouble with getting the key to turn in the rear
> hatch cylinder.  It takes a lot of jiggling and moving in and out and
> sometimes I have just given up.  So I decided to take a look at that
> problem tonight.  Got the assembly out of the hatch and used some
> carb cleaner on it.  Moved the key in and out a lot, sprayed some
> more cleaner, repeat, etc.  Now I can't get it to turn at all.  It
> did seem to feel crisper in there after this treatment, like the
> tumblers were moving more freely.  I was thinking about taking the
> cylinder out of the assembly that moves into the hatch and hits the
> release.  Oh Vanagon lock experts, what say you?  Am I going in the
> right direction?
> Edward