A faulty ignition switch can cause various problems such as turning off the car, the lights or having the radio off unless the key is moved from one side to the other. If you have identified the problem and confirmed that it is due to the faulty ignition switch, then you will need to remove the steering column and disconnect the airbag to reach it. Not a difficult task, but it involves removing several small screws from different parts of the steering block. A system will help you to recognize the cables and put the screws in order in a container.
Steps
Step 1. Make sure the steering wheel is centered and the wheels straight
Step 2. Disconnect the battery
Step 3. Pull firmly on the horn pad to remove it
Step 4. Find the cable behind the horn button and disconnect it
Method 1 of 2: Remove a Steering Wheel with Airbag
Step 1. Disconnect the battery and wait 1/2 hour before starting
Step 2. Remove the 2 screws from the column
Step 3. Remove the airbag assembly
Step 4. Detach the rear part of the airbag
Step 5. Find and disconnect the horn
Method 2 of 2: For Both
Step 1. Remove the rubber cylinder from the adapter
Step 2. Remove the nut and washer from the center of the column block
Step 3. Mark all the parts and how they are arranged
Step 4. Take off the steering wheel
Step 5. Remove the 3 screws from the levers
Step 6. Unscrew and remove the plastic housing
Step 7. Pull out the levers one at a time taking care not to damage the cables attached to the switches
Step 8. Remove the plastic collar from the column (there are notches on the bottom where you can insert a screwdriver and pry)
Step 9. Remove the bolt from the left side on the bottom of the dashboard
Step 10. Remove the power switch assembly and disconnect the cables from the back
Step 11. Remove the small screw from the back of the switch assembly
Step 12. Remove the switch
Step 13. Put a small amount of lubricant on the bottom of the new switch
Step 14. Attach the cables to the new switch
Step 15. Reassemble all parts by following the previous steps in reverse
Step 16. Reconnect the battery
Step 17. Turn on the machine to test the new switch
Advice
- It is always a good idea to clean the battery cables when the battery is disconnected for other repairs.
- Steering locks are not all the same. Check the instruction manual to find the parts mentioned and how to disassemble them in your vehicle.
- You may want to reassemble only the parts necessary to start the car to test the new switch, in order to avoid having to remove the entire steering wheel lock.
