Only runs with key in the START position

I have a 1991 Mitsubishi eclipse, its a 5 speed, and although it probably isnt a mitsubishi only problem, i still would like some help...It will start and run just fine if the key is held in the START position, but as soon as you let the key rotate back the the ON position, it losses power and dies. Any ideas???

I have a 1991 Mitsubishi eclipse, its a 5 speed, and although it probably isnt a mitsubishi only problem, i still would like some help...It will start and run just fine if the key is held in the START position, but as soon as you let the key rotate back the the ON position, it losses power and dies. Any ideas???

Welcome to AF!

So basically the car only runs when the starter is cranking it? Is the car actually firing and delivering fuel?

I had a civic that had the exact same problem it would only run if you held the key in the start position or just a little less than the start position, let it go to the on position and it would quit on me. I replaced the ignition switch and never had any more trouble with it. Could be your ignition switch has gone bad......just a thought.

I would bet on ignition switch as well

I have already replaced the ignition switch on this vehicle. I replaced the ignition switch on my daughter's car approximately a month ago as the finger turn had broken free and she was in danger of breaking the key off in the switch. The car has been starting and running fine. She called me last night as the car will start but she has to back off of the start position slightly and hold it there for it to run. It will not run in the run position. Is there a fusible link, fuse, circuit breaker that could cause this or is the explanation simply that the new ignition switch (as unlikely as that sounds) has gone bad?

Decided to buy my daughter another ignition switch - the unthinkable DID happen. The switch I purchased just a month ago HAD failed. Installed the new switch and her car is running again.

good to hear
but its always good to stay oem