jerybak

while starting the car some times the key will stay in the start position unless I turn it back a touch to the run position. Is this a failing ignition issue or a cleaning issue?

James Bailey

usually the electric switch behind the lock cylinder....that is where the return spring is located...they often fail in several ways. Be sure to get a real one as there are cheaper copies being sold.

dr bob

^^^^ There are reports of folks replacing the switch to solve a "problem", only to find that their 'new' switch introduces a host of new problems. Considering you might need replacement once every 25 years, and also how many critical functions depend on that switch, a 'bargain' knock-off loses its 'bargain' status the first time it doesn't work.

Meanwhile....

The electrical portion of the switch ataches to the back of the lock section with a couple screws. Electrical connector plugs onto the "rear" of the switch, actually on the forward end of the switch as it sits in the car. After you have the switch removed, use the key to carefully cycle the lock and make sure the action is free. Clean as necessary, using your favorite lock cleaning spray. Tri-Flow is my go-to spray for this, with a tray underneath to catch the runout. If the electrical portion of your switch is OK just not cycling back, you can try cleaning it to free up the stiction. Then DeOxit to clean the electrical contacts. A much fun as it is to R&R his part though, I'm a fan of just replacing while it's all apart.

My used/spares bin has the perfectly good original 1989 switch that I took out for another reason. If concourse judges check installed switches for originality I'll have to put it back in. Until then, the replacement is working exactly as well as the original.