Voyager Ignition Switch Problem

[Albertron]

My 1998 Chrysler Voyager will shut down power to accessories when the key is turned to the "OFF" position, but when turned further to the "LOCK" position so that the key can be withdrawn, relays activate to feed power to a variety of items. The battery drains with the car parked, and security is at risk because the power windows can be operated with no key in the ignition switch! The car recently had its clock spring replaced. Perhaps this work disturbed the switch mechanism? I've heard about a Tech. Service Bulletin "NHTSA 607958 that pertains to a known Voyager ignition switch defect, but haven't been able to read the details yet. Thanks for any ideas.

[Albertron]

NHTSA bulletin was a red herring, read and discounted it. Has anyone had 1st hand experience with the ignition switch and wiring, could the connector be plugged in one row out or something? Or maybe there's a plastic cam that has broken a lobe? Anyone know?

[Bear]

I had problems with the key lock cylinder on my'96, occasionally I had no accessory power and I had to turn key to off and then on again to get power to accessories. I did change the lock cylinder and that cured the problem. However, the ignition switch (below the steering column) wires a lot of 12 volt power to various accessories, so that could also be an issue.

[Airjer_]

It wouldn't hurt to pull the tumbler (the part the key goes into) and see if the ears on the end of it are intact or broken. To remove it you will pull the lower column trim cover. You will see a button that locks it into the housing. with the key in the run position the button should push in and the tumbler will pull out. Should literally take 5 minutes to check.

[Albertron]

Originally Posted by Airjer_

It wouldn't hurt to pull the tumbler (the part the key goes into) and see if the ears on the end of it are intact or broken. To remove it you will pull the lower column trim cover. You will see a button that locks it into the housing. with the key in the run position the button should push in and the tumbler will pull out. Should literally take 5 minutes to check.

I think you've hit the nail on the head. I can't wait to get back home from business travels and check it out. Thank you so much, I owe you a beer!