Replace an Ignition Switch

A faulty ignition switch on your vehicle can cause several problems such as your car stalling and all lights going dark or the radio not turning on unless the key is wiggled from side to side. If you have gone through the troubleshooting process and have confirmed a faulty ignition switch, you will need to replace it or take the vehicle to a repair shop, assuming that it is drivable. If you choose to replace the ignition switch yourself, you will need to disassemble the steering column and disconnect the airbag (if applicable) to access it. This is not a major task but it does involve removing several small screws and parts from the different parts of the steering assembly. A system of coding wires and keeping screws in containers will be helpful.

Steps

  1. Ensure that your steering wheel is centered and that the tires are straight.
  2. Disconnect the battery.
  3. Pull firmly on the horn pad and remove.
  4. Locate the wire behind the horn button and disconnect it.

Removing a Steering Wheel With Air Bags

  1. Disconnect the battery and wait 1/2 hour before beginning.
  2. Remove the 2 recessed screws in the column.
  3. Slide off the air-bag assembly.
  4. Unplug the back of the airbag.
  5. Locate and disconnect the horn.

For Both

  1. Remove the rubber cylinder (boot) from the adapter.
  2. Remove the nut and washer from the center of the column assembly.
  3. Mark all parts and how they are oriented with the rest of the assembly.
  4. Slide off the steering wheel.
  5. Remove the 3 screws from the stalk.
  6. Unscrew and remove the plastic housing.
  7. Slide off the 2 stalks one at a time carefully so as to not damage the wires that are attached to the switches.
  8. Remove the plastic collar from the column (there are slots in the bottom in which to insert a screwdriver for prying).
  9. Remove the bolt from the left side from the bottom of the dashboard.
  10. Slide out the ignition switch assembly and unplug the wires from the back of it.
  11. Remove the small screw from the back of the ignition assembly.
  12. Slide the switch out.
  13. Place a small amount of grease on the end of the new switch.
  14. Plug the wires into the new switch.
  15. Reassemble all parts by reversing the steps above.
  16. Reconnect the battery.
  17. Start the car to test the new switch.

Tips

  • It's always a good idea to clean your battery cables when you have the battery disconnected for other repairs.
  • You may want to reassemble just the parts necessary for your car to start when you first test the new ignition switch to avoid having to remove the entire steering wheel assembly again.
  • Not all steering assemblies are the same. Check your owner's manual to find the parts mentioned and how to disassemble them on your particular vehicle.

Warnings

  • Ignition switch contacts can wear from the electrical current and your vehicle can stall unexpectedly while driving, which can be a dangerous situation. If you can easily have the switch checked during regular service, it might save you time and trouble later.

Things You'll Need

  • Owner's manual
  • Small Phillips screwdriver
  • Allen wrenches (metric)
  • Flat screwdrivers (various sizes)
  • Small pry bar
  • Hammer
  • Large deep-dish socket
  • Small etching tool for marking orientation of parts
  • Steering wheel puller (optional)
  • Shop light
  • Grease
  • Paper towels or shop rags
  • New ignition switch

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Sources and Citations