SWITCH-IGNITION
DESCRIPTION
The ignition switch (1) is located on the steering col-
umn. It is used as the main on/off switching device for
most electrical components. The mechanical key cylin-
der is used to engage/disengage the electrical ignition
switch.
OPERATION
Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission and a steering column mounted shifter: an interlock
device is located within the shift cable. This interlock device is used to lock the transmission shifter in the PARK
position when the key cylinder is in any position and the brake pedal is not depressed.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
IGNITION SWITCH
TEST AND REPAIR
If the key removal effort is excessive on a vehicle with a automatic transmission first adjust the shift linkage, (Refer
to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 46RE/GEAR SHIFT CABLE - ADJUSTMENTS).
If the ignition switch effort is excessive remove the ignition key cylinder from the steering column. (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/COLUMN/LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING - REMOVAL). Check the turning effort of the key cylinder. If the
ignition key cylinder effort is excessive replace the key cylinder. If the ignition key cylinder operates properly look for
the following conditions.
REMOVAL
SERVICE PRECAUTIONS
Safety goggles should be worn at all times when working on steering columns.
To service the steering wheel, switches or airbag, Refer to Electrical Restraints and follow all WARNINGS and CAU-
TIONS.
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 MIN-
UTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN ACCIDEN-
TAL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY. THE FASTENERS, SCREWS, AND
BOLTS, ORIGINALLY USED FOR THE AIRBAG COMPONENTS, HAVE SPECIAL COATINGS AND ARE SPE-
CIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. THEY MUST NEVER BE REPLACED WITH ANY SUBSTI-
TUTES. 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.
HB
COLUMN
19 - 13