Ignition Sticks When Key Turned to Start - '99

My daughter's '99 4Dr Sdn does this most times she starts it. When you put the key in the ignition and turn it to start, the ignition sticks momentarily. You must manually turn it slightly back to not grind the starter. The car starts up and runs fine except for this. On occasion, this "sticking" will reset the car's clock and the radio will be reset from FM to AM...(?)

I've shot it with WD40 but it's only a very short term fix.

Any help much appreciated.

Thanks

SteveInVA

That's a problem with the ignition switch.

That's a problem with the ignition switch.

Thanks. Wondering if you could tell me more specifically what that involves and + or - how much $$ you think it costs.

You should have your ignition switch replaced. It's the switch that you activate with the ignition key to start and run the car. It's activated by the ignition cylinder. It costs 120$ included part and 1.5h of labor.

http://www.partsgeek.com/assets/dom/thumb/5533-05048522-1100838.jpg

Thanks. I'll check with my mechanic Monday. The stickiness issue, I thought I could spray away. The resetting of clock and radio, not in my skillset.
Thanks again. Happy New Year.

Fixing the ignition switch will probably fix the radio and clock reset problem as well.

-Rod

If I remember correctly, the "switch" containing the electrical contacts is seperate from the cylinder, either one can be at fault, more likely the cylinder assembly. (at least it was in my case).

If I remember correctly, the "switch" containing the electrical contacts is seperate from the cylinder...

Of course.

Took it to my mechanic. He thought it might need to be replaced as you said. Mentioned same thing about separate components within the lockset too, but, he wound up shooting powdered graphite into it. Works so far, knock on wood. We'll see how long it lasts. Cost me $24...Getting a tube of graphite powder tomorrow.