Ignition Switch: Service and Repair

Fig. 1 Steering Lock Housing Removal.:

Fig. 2 Ignition Switch Removal:

1. Disable airbag system:

To disarm airbag system, disconnect battery ground cable and the orange connector located on the lower side of the steering column. Wait a minimum of 10 minutes before performing any vehicle service. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is designed to retain enough battery voltage to deploy the airbag for a short time after the battery ground cable has been disconnected. Performing service before the minimum of 10 minutes has elapsed may cause airbag deployment and possible injury.


2. Remove steering wheel as described under STEERING SUSPENSION CHASSIS AND BODY COMPONENTS/COMPONENTS REPLACEMENT AND REPAIR PROCEDURES/STEERING WHEEL.
3. Remove left lower instrument panel trim and the lower steering column cover.
4. Remove retaining screws and disconnect headlamp and windshield wiper switches from column.
5. Pull flasher relay out of holder.
6. Remove 4 shear screws securing steering column bracket using suitable chisel.
7. Remove shear screw and setscrew, Fig. 1, securing steering lock housing.
8. Hold on steering column and withdraw steering lock assembly.
9. Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector.
10. Depress retainer and remove switch and/or lock, as needed, Fig. 2.
11. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. Ensure lock and switch tabs are aligned, then install switch into lock housing.
b. Connect switch electrical connector, hold on column and install lock assembly.
c. Install setscrew and lock with paint, then install new lock housing shear screw, tightening screw until head breaks off.
d. Install 4 new shear screws securing steering column bracket and tighten screws until heads break off.