Tweedy

Hi everyone,

I seem to have a problem with the ignition cylinder: the electronics don't come on once I turn the key to the II position. If I turn it a bit further, the electronics come on and I can the start the car, but once I let go – it dies. If I turn it back from the II position a little bit, the electronics also come on, but once I start it and let the key drop back, the same thing happens again, no matter how much I wiggle it or try to find a sweet spot.

Now my questions – do you have any advice on fixing this issue? I've had a look at some vids on how to replace the lock and it doesn't seem especially tricky, but is that likely to be the root of the issue or could it be something else? Also, do I need new parts or is it possible to salvage the situation with what I've got?

Thanks in advance.

TomCat39

It could possibly be corrosion on the home position contacts.

You can try some electronic contact cleaner. The way I'd go about it is to unhook your battery so no power to any of the circuits, spray the cleaner into the ignition lock, insert your key and twist it through all the positions a few times. Spray a bit more, twist it a few more times, then blow it out with air to get the excess out or off the contacts. Then let it sit for a couple of hours, then reconnect the battery and test.

If that doesn't change anything, then I'd be installing a new ignition in the steering column.

Former User

You only need to replace the electrical part of the ignition switch, which you can purchase on eBay for about $50.