Ignition Switch: Service and Repair

REMOVAL

SERVICE PRECAUTIONS

NOTE: The steering column on vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission is not equipped with an internal locking shaft with the ignition cylinder. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.





The tilt and standard column (4) have been designed to be serviced as an assembly; without wiring, switches, shrouds, steering wheel, etc. Most steering column components can be serviced without removing the steering column from the vehicle.

Safety goggles should be worn at all times when working on steering columns.

To service the steering wheel, switches or airbag, Refer to Restraints and follow all WARNINGS and CAUTIONS.

WARNING: THE AIRBAG SYSTEM IS A SENSITIVE, COMPLEX ELECTRO-MECHANICAL UNIT. BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO DIAGNOSE, REMOVE OR INSTALL THE AIRBAG SYSTEM COMPONENTS YOU MUST FIRST DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE. THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY. THE FASTENERS, SCREWS, AND BOLTS, ORIGINALLY USED FOR THE AIRBAG COMPONENTS, HAVE SPECIAL COATINGS AND ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. THEY MUST NEVER BE REPLACED WITH ANY SUBSTITUTES. ANYTIME A NEW FASTENER IS NEEDED, REPLACE WITH THE CORRECT FASTENERS PROVIDED IN THE SERVICE PACKAGE OR FASTENERS LISTED IN THE PARTS BOOKS.

CAUTION: Do not hammer on steering column shaft. This may cause damage to the shaft or bearing.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove the pivot bolts to disassemble the tilting mechanism.

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch.

1. Remove the negative (ground) cable from the battery.
2. Disable the airbag.
3. Remove the lower and upper shrouds.
4. Remove key cylinder.
5. Disconnect the lower clockspring connectors.
6. Remove the wire retainer from the tilt lever bracket





7. Remove the tilt lever mounting screws to gain access to the ignition switch (1) mounting screws.





8. For columns without tilt remove the bracket (2) to gain access to the ignition switch mounting screws (2).





9. Disconnect the electrical connector at rear of ignition switch (1).
10. Remove ignition switch mounting screw (2).
11. Using a small screwdriver, push on locking tab and remove switch from steering column.

INSTALLATION
The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before installing ignition switch.

1. Before installing ignition switch. rotate the slot in the switch to the ON Position.
2. Connect the electrical connector to rear of the ignition switch. Make sure that locking tabs are fully seated into wiring connector.





3. Position switch (1) to column and install the mounting screw (2). Tighten screw to 3 Nm (26 inch lbs.).





4. Install the tilt lever bracket (2) mounting screws. Tighten screws to 4.5 Nm (40 inch lbs.).





5. If the column is non-tilt install the bracket (2). Tighten screws to 4.5 Nm (40 inch lbs.).
6. Position the wire retainer into the tilt lever bracket.
7. Reconnect the lower clockspring connectors.





8. Install the key cylinder (1).
9. Install steering column upper and lower shrouds.
10. Enable the airbag system.