replace ignition switch

[jsmith4806]

From following these threads, I have determined I need to replace the ignition switch. Hard to do? Any idea where I can find directions? I assume I remove the radio, and it should be pretty apparent, but don't want to screw anything up. Thanksw! JIM

[panzer dragoon]

1. Disconnect the battery negative cable.
2. Remove the radio.
3. Remove the heater A/C control.
4. Remove the left IP insulator.
5. Remove the Steering column filler panel.
6. Remove the knee bolster bracket.
7. Turn ignition switch lock cylinder key to the ACC position and pull the park lock cable from the ignition switch. IMPORTANT: The Passlock(TM) electrical connector can not be removed until the Ignition Switch Lock Cylinder is removed.
8. Remove the ignition switch lock cylinder from the ignition switch.
9. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the ignition switch.
10. Remove the Ignition switch through opening in the dash panel.

This is from alldatadiy.com ($25 a year). They have a few diagrams also. I didn't see a diagnostic chart.


There is a process for just removing the key cylinder also. (Switch stays in.)

[zephram22]

Hmm. Are the Intrigue's having a problem with the keys getting stuck, as the Auroras are?

[jsmith48066]

Ordered switch from RockAuto (~$80), replaced yesterday, problems seem to be gone. Definitely a diy project, but took me about 2.5 hrs. Remove front part of console, trim ring around radio/A/C controls, radio, A/C controller, bezel arround the key, trim ring around instrument panel, instrument cluster, emergency flasher contoller (left wires attached, just released and moved out of way). Difficult to get electrical connections unhooked in place, so unhooked the park cable (with key in ACC), then could rotate the switch to unhook the electrical connectors. Pulled switch out of dash, removed lock cylinder, (Key in ON position)by pushing tab, released the last two wires which can only be removed after the lock cylinder is removed. Reinstalled in reverse.

tips: Helped to have new switch on hand to see where the connectors were, and how they attached.
Used Chilton manual (not really very helpful, but better than nothing)
Have to remove lock cylinder to remove the last two wires (in one connecter) from the switch.
Push tab to release the park cable is on bottom of switch, used a narrow short screwdriver to depress the tab and slide the cable out.
Need lots of patience.

[panzer dragoon]

It's always hard doing it the first time (next time set your watch for 1 hr). It helps when you have diagrams like alldatadiy.com does -it gives you confidence. And if I ever do get my ignition fixed I'll be digging up this post for a reference also.

My alldata runs out in a month. It's only $15 a year to renew, but than can add up.

Now take your wife out with all that money you saved doing it yourself! ---RockAuto also saved a bunch for you as well I'm sure. Shop the rock!