Ive searched, couldnt find anything that sounds exactly like this but fairly similar, so figured i'd double check before I bother to replace it.


Turn key to the start position, car doesnt start. I turn it back off and turn back to the start position and continue to turn it back and forth in the start position and still does not start. If I turn the key to the start position and press firmly inwards towards the driver side door (forcing the key in further) while holding it in the start position, it starts right up. It will no longer start by just turning the key normally. A few occasions before I had this problem but never noticed what it was I did to get it started back, ive tryed this a few times now that I figured out i have to press in on the key and it works everytime.


Car is a 93 civic SI btw if that matters.



Ignition switch sound like its seen better days? Or is it possible theres something wrong with the tumbler itself or something like that?


Thanks in advance

 

Nah man, it's the switch. Common problem on Accords, Civics, Integras, Vigors, Legends, Preludes, and... I think that's it.

 

^yep

 

LOL Well damn, I think that about sums it up. I knew it was a common problem but wasnt sure since ive never personally had it happen out of my 4-5 previously owned hondas.

O just another quick Q, will the switch and wiring harness to the switch (the 2 brown plugs) work with a 92-95 civic off of a 96-00 civic? I have the switch with uncut wires from my wrecked 99 hatch and knew it to be a working unit so I planned to use that one to replace it as long as its the same. Im like 99.999% sure its the same just would be cool if someone verified it before i busted into changing it, which will be tomorrow


Thanks for the verification though guys.

 

When you replace the ignition switch will you have to take it to a dealership to program it so the car will turn on or should it work right after installation. I have the same problem and I plan on replacing it soon so just wondering.

 

Almost sounds like it's the key cylinder half of the switch. I know the actual electrical half of the switch has the same part number for 96-00 ONLY. I just replaced mine. I couldn't find a switch listing for 92-95 although I'm pretty sure they're different. Aftermarket sells electrical half of the switch for $40. Not sure how much a new key cylinder & keys are?? Honda only sells complete unit Keys, cylinder, and elec half for about $110

 

No you dont have to go to the dealership..

All i did was go to the junk yard pull one out of the same year civic and put it in..I had the same problem as the OP but i had to hold my key in the forward position for the car to stay on as soon as i let go the car would shut off.. Its an easy fix once you know what it is.. I spent 200 on new spark plugs wires dizzy,,Etc. because there were no signs of an ignition switch..But yeah its that little white electronic peice on the left side of the ignition..BTW its alot easier if you take your steering wheel off..

GL with the problem!!

 

i had this sam problam in my 95 coupe i didnt replace it tho.i took the ignition appart and cleaned the contacts with a small peice of 1000 grit sand paper.works fine now...just gotta be careful theres little ball bearings that can be lost,do it in a clean bench.its really not that hard and is better than buying a new one

 

I remember there being a recall for that, I don't remember what year and models though. I'd check and see if it's covered first before spending any money. A quick call to the dealer with your VIN should do it.

 

It turned out to be the ignition switch and the starter relay together, somehow..