Why doesn't my 91 Camry turn on when I turn the key? Please help..

[mrgrneyyez03]

When I turn the key my ignition switch doesn't send any spark to the starter. In fact I cant hear the relay do anything it's just a dead sound both from inside the car and in the engine. Usually you should hear some relay switching or something. I have replaced the battery with a new and also bought a new starter and still it doesn't turn on. I tried starting the car opening the ignition switch and jumping a wire over to the starter direct from the batteries (+) and it turns on perfectly. So is it the ignition switch? If so, where can I buy a part like that and how can I get some instruction on changing it myself. Please help...thank you all in advance for this great service.

[eldiablo1100]

try replacing the starter relay and starter fuse

[Joe W]

It could be the ignition switch, or neutral safety swtich. You could try to jiggle the key when it is in the start position to see if a connection is made for the ignition switch, if that don't work, hold the key at the start position while moving the shifter. This won't tell you if the safety switch is faulty, but it will let you know if it is mis-adjusted. Don't forget to check the relay and fuse that eldiablo1100 recommended.

[mrgrneyyez03]

Originally Posted by eldiablo1100

try replacing the starter relay and starter fuse

thanks i will try

[mrgrneyyez03]

Originally Posted by Joe W

It could be the ignition switch, or neutral safety swtich. You could try to jiggle the key when it is in the start position to see if a connection is made for the ignition switch, if that don't work, hold the key at the start position while moving the shifter. This won't tell you if the safety switch is faulty, but it will let you know if it is mis-adjusted. Don't forget to check the relay and fuse that eldiablo1100 recommended.

lets say i jiggle the key and a connection is made and the car starts...what would that mean?

if the safety switch is mis-adjusted how can it be adjusted?

[eldiablo1100]

if you jiggle the kay and it makes a connection, then it means your ignition switch is worn, and you have to replace your ignition switch

and i'm not sure, but i don't think 91 cars have neutral safety switches

[Mike Gerber]

Originally Posted by eldiablo1100

if you jiggle the kay and it makes a connection, then it means your ignition switch is worn, and you have to replace your ignition switch

and i'm not sure, but i don't think 91 cars have neutral safety switches

It does have a neutral safety switch. The switch prevents the car from starting in any other gear besides Park and Neutral.

Mike