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Anonymous Posted on Sep 10, 2015

Need to change the ignition switch

How to get the column cover off (9 top side )

1 Answer

Jeff Armer

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  • Buick Master 15,575 Answers
  • Posted on Sep 10, 2015
Jeff Armer
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Steering Column Trim Cover Replacement
Removal Procedure
Caution: Refer to SIR Caution in the Preface section.

  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling in SIR.
  2. Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.
  3. Disconnect the battery negative cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
  4. Remove the steering wheel. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .
  5. Remove the gap hider. Refer to Instrument Cluster Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console.
Put the steering column in the CENTER position. Remove the tilt lever (1).
Remove the retaining screws (3) from the lower steering column trim cover. Disconnect the closeout trim cover from the lower steering column trim cover.
Remove the retaining screw (2) from the upper steering column trim cover (1).

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I need to brake out a tumbler from the ignitions switch on a 1999 saab 9/3

  1. First your gonna remove the screws on the side steering cover itself.
  2. Now remove the screws on the bottom of the steering column cover.
  3. Pull the bottom half of the steering column off.
  4. Now you will see a little hole by the bottom of the tumbler.
  5. take a punch and insert it into that hole.
  6. With the punch pry up a bit and pull the tumbler out.

Regards, Tony
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How do I replace my ignition switch on my 1985 audi coupe gt?

Hi!!

The ignition switch is usually mounted to the steering column and is operated by a linkage rod.

NOTE
On column-mounted ignition switches, don't confuse the switch with the lock cylinder and keys. The ignition switch is not normally visible.
On some vehicles, the steering column support has to be removed and the column lowered to find the ignition switch. On others, the switch is accessible under the dash


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The ignition switch is operated by the key switch.

To replace the switch:
  • Remove the ignition switch wiring harness.
  • Unbolt it from its position.
  • Bolt the new switch into position.
  • Attach the witing harness.
Don't forget to rate this post!! Good Luck!!
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Need to replace the ignation switch in my 2000 chrysler LHS

Removal & Installation
  1. Disconnect negative cable from battery.
  2. Remove the Instrument Panel Center Bezel, Chrysler and Dodge.
  3. Remove side trim panel to steering column cover.
  4. Remove the screws that secure the steering column cover to the instrument panel and relocate panel.
  5. Pull the steering column cover rearward at the top and right side of the cover to release the snap retainers from the instrument panel.
  6. Remove the screws that secure the instrument panel steering column cover reinforcement to bracket and remove reinforcement from the vehicle. Remove the 2 front mounting nuts.
  7. Remove the lower mounting nut.
  8. Slide the assembly rearward into the instrument panel and down to gain access to switch.
  9. Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition Switch and SKREEM Module.
  10. Remove the interlock cable by depressing the locking tab and pulling straight.
  11. Remove ignition switch mounting screw.
  12. Squeeze the 2 locking tabs to remove ignition switch from the lockhousing .

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Removal and installation of the ignition switch

To install:

NOTE A tab on the ignition switch indexes to a notch in the lock cylinder housing. Also, a slot in the end of the ignition switch fits over the shaft in the end of the lock cylinder housing.


  1. Use the ignition key to rotate the lock cylinder to align the ignition switch with lock cylinder housing.
  2. Insert ignition switch into lock housing until locking tabs are seated into openings on lock housing.
  3. Install ignition switch mounting screw.
  4. Install the interlock cable into the switch assembly. Attach electrical connector to SKREEM Module.
  5. Install switch assembly into Instrument Panel.
  6. Attach electrical connector to ignition switch.
  7. Tighten the 2 mounting nuts.
  8. Tighten the lower mounting nut.
  9. Install steering column reinforcement.
  10. Steering column reinforcement installed.
  11. Install the Steering column reinforcement cover.
  12. Install trim panel end.
  13. Install the Bezel cluster.
  14. Install the ignition switch bezel ring.
  15. Connect the negative battery cable.
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Need to replace an ignition switch- how do i do it

The steering column needs to be dropped to get at it.

Put blocks behind your tires, your car could shift out of park while repairing.

First remove the dash cover below the steering column. Carefully remove the metal clip for the transmission gear shift indicator, and note it's position. Then remove the two bolts from the metal bracket holding the column in place. It should float freely now.

The ignition switch is on top of the column, on the left side. There should be a metal rod and a whole bunch of wires running to it. There are two screws holding the bracket to the column.

Be careful with that rod, if it falls out of the column, it is almost impossible to put back!

I don't know what a new ignition switch comes with, but there should be some instructions for wiring.

Good luck!
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2006 hhr to take out ignition switch out

Removal & Installation

1. Disable the SIR system.


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Remove the Instrument Panel (I/P) center trim panel by releasing the retaining fasteners

  1. Remove the Instrument Panel (I/P) center trim panel (1) by pulling out on the trim panel in order to release the retaining fasteners (2).
  2. Disconnect the electrical connectors on the Instrument Panel (I/P) center trim panel (1).

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Remove the steering column opening filler assembly, with clip, & bumper

3. Remove the steering column opening filler assembly (1) by pulling away the clips (2).
4. Disconnect the electrical connector for the trunk release.


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Remove the Instrument Panel (I/P) left side trim panel

  1. Remove the Instrument Panel (I/P) left side trim panel (1).
  2. Tilt the steering wheel up.
  3. Disconnect the I/P dimmer switch and, if equipped, the fog lamp switch.

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Remove the 4 bezel screws (2) & the Instrument Panel (I/P) cluster bezel assembly (1)

  1. Tilt the steering wheel down.
  2. Remove the 4 instrument panel cluster bezel screws.
  3. Remove the instrument panel cluster bezel.

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Remove the steering column trim covers: steering column upper cover assembly, steering column left cover assembly, & steering column right cover assembly

Remove the steering column trim covers:
  • Remove the 3 cover screws (4).
  • Remove the steering column upper cover assembly (1).
  • Remove the steering column left cover assembly (2).
  • Remove the steering column right cover assembly (3).


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Removal of the ignition switch

    1. Disconnect the ignition switch harness connector.
    1. WARNING
    The ignition switch must be in the run position during removal in order to avoid damage to the ignition switch.

    1. Turn the ignition switch to the run position.
    2. Remove the ignition switch screws.
    3. Remove the ignition switch from the steering column.
    To install:
    1. Install the ignition switch and screws on to the steering column. Tighten the screws to 17 inch lbs. (2 Nm).
    2. Connect the ignition switch harness connector.
    3. Installation is the reverse of removal procedure.
    4. Tighten the trim cover screws to 17 inch lbs. (2 Nm)
    5. Tighten the 4 instrument panel cluster bezel screws to 19 inch lbs. (2 Nm)
    6. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Air Bag (Supplemental Restraint System), arming the system.
      NOTE If the ignition switch is replaced and a learn procedure is not performed, the engine will crank but not start or will start and stall immediately.

    7. Perform the vehicle theft deterrent system learn procedure.
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    How hard is it to put in an ignition in a 89 ford probe gt turbo?

    This is what it looks like to replace it....you decide on what your level of mechanical knowledge is. I hope this helps you!

    Removal & Installation
    1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
    2. Remove the lower instrument cluster cover as follows:
      1. Remove the steering wheel. Refer to Section 8.
      2. Remove the 2 column cover screws and the cover.
      3. Remove the 9 cluster module mounting screws.
      4. Carefully pull the cluster module outward and disconnect the electrical connectors.
      5. Remove the ignition switch illumination bulb and remove the cluster module.
      6. Loosen the 2 cover hinge screws and the 6 upper cluster cover screws. Remove the cover.
      7. Remove the lower cluster cover panel.
    3. Remove the lap duct and the defrost duct.
    4. Remove the mounting nuts from the hinge bracket.
    5. Remove the steering column upper mounting bolts/nuts and allow the steering column to hang down.
    6. Remove the screw securing the ignition switch to the ignition switch housing.
    7. Disconnect the 4 ignition switch snap connectors located to the left of the steering column.
    8. Remove the protective looming from the ignition switch wires.
    9. Note the position of each wire in the 4-terminal connector for installation reference. Disconnect the 2 wires (green wire and red wire/orange tracer) of the key-in warning buzzer at the 4-terminal connector by disengaging the tang with a paperclip or other suitable tool.
    To install:
    1. Connect the 2 wires of the key-in warning buzzer to the 4-terminal connector as follows:
      1. Align the flat side of the wire end with the grooved portion of the connector.
      2. Push the wire into the connector until the locking tang engages the end of the wire.
    2. Install the protective looming around the ignition switch wires.
    3. Connect the 4 snap electrical connectors of the ignition switch to their mating connectors, pushing together until the locking tangs are in place.
    4. Install the ignition switch into the switch housing and secure it with the screw.
    5. Raise the steering column into position. Install the upper bracket bolts and tighten to 12-17 ft. lbs. (16-23 Nm).
    6. Install the cluster support nuts and tighten to 6.5-10 ft. lbs. (8.8-14 Nm). Install the hinge bracket nuts and tighten to 12-17 ft. lbs. (16-23 Nm).
    7. Install the lap duct and defroster duct.
    8. Install the lower cluster cover panel and the cluster cover.
    9. Install the ignition switch illumination bulb. Connect the electrical connectors and install the cluster module with the attaching screws.
    10. Install the column cover and the steering wheel.
    11. Connect the negative battery cable and check ignition switch operation.
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    2001 ford focus

    If your Ford Focus is not starting, and you know the battery and alternator are good, the problem could lie in the ignition system. The ignition switch is a whole cylinder inserted into the steering column that connects to the starter motor. When you change an ignition switch, you are also replacing the key.

    1. Remove the dashboard panel below the steering column in your car; it should be screwed in place. Remove the steering column's upper cover by releasing its clips with a flat-head screwdriver.
    2. Look for the audio control switch---a small device sticking out of the steering column that acts like a remote control. If one exists, release the switch's plastic locking tang with the screwdriver, and unplug the electrical connector to remove the switch.
    3. Loosen the steering column by releasing the locking lever, and remove the steering column's lower cover by pulling out the screws with the screwdriver.
    4. Use your ignition key to turn the switch to the left---the position that would activate the accessories but not start the car. Insert the screwdriver into the hole in the top of the cylinder to depress the detent spring, and pull out the cylinder with the key inside.
    5. Insert the new key into the new ignition switch, and line up the switch inside the steering column so it's in the same place the old switch was in when you removed it. Make sure the detent locks into place; then turn the switch so it's in the "Off" position.
    6. Replace all the covers and panels you removed to access the cylinder, along with the audio control switch, if applicable, in reverse order of

    Things You'll Need:
    • Small flat-head screwdriver
    • Ignition switch and key

    Tips & Warnings
    • Older Ford Focus models may have a different method of removing and changing the ignition switch. Check an automotive guide for your particular year and model.
    • Always disconnect the negative (black) battery cable before working on the ignition or any other electrical component of your car.

    I hope helped with this (remember rated this help) Good luck.
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    I need to replace an ignition switch on my 1999 Chrysler Sebring convertible, how do I remove the dashboard

    This is for the ignition switch like you are asking for:

    Ignition Switch REMOVAL & INSTALLATION Cirrus, Stratus, Sebring Convertible and Breeze CAUTION
    The Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) system must be disarmed before working around the steering column. Failure to do so may cause accidental deployment of the air bags, resulting in unnecessary SIR system repairs and/or personal injury.
    1. Disarm the air bag system, as described in Section 6.
    2. Remove the left end instrument panel cover/fuse panel and remove the retaining screw holding the end of the instrument panel top cover.
    3. Remove the instrument panel center bezel.
    4. Remove the screws that secure the instrument panel top cover to the center of the instrument panel.
    5. Lift the instrument panel top cover enough to gain access to the knee bolster attaching screws.
    6. Remove the lower knee bolster attaching screws and knee bolster from the vehicle.
    7. Remove the lower steering column cover attaching screws. Pull down on the lower cover to clear the ignition key cylinder and key release (if equipped).
    8. Remove the lower steering column cover, sliding the cover forward while holding down the steering wheel tilt lever.
    9. Tilt the steering wheel down to the fully lowered position and remove the upper steering column cover.
    10. Remove the screws that hold the combination switch to the ignition lock housing.
    11. Place the ignition lock cylinder in the RUN position.
    12. Insert a small prying tool into the hole in the lower cover and depress the cylinder release tab.
    13. Remove the ignition lock cylinder from the steering column.
    14. Unfasten the electrical connectors from the switch.
    15. Using a No. 10 Torx® bit, remove the ignition switch mounting screw.
    16. Depress the retaining tabs and remove the switch. To install:
    17. Place the ignition switch in the RUN position. Be sure the actuator shaft in the lock housing is also in the RUN position.
    18. Install the switch, making sure the switch snaps over the retaining tabs.
    19. Install the retaining screw.
    20. Connect the wiring to the ignition switch.
    21. Install the ignition lock cylinder.
    22. Install the 2 combination switch mounting screws.
    23. Install the lower and upper shrouds.
    24. Install the knee bolster to the lower dashboard panel and tighten the lower knee bolster attaching screws.
    25. Install the screws that secure the instrument panel top cover to the center of the instrument panel.
    26. Install the instrument panel center bezel.
    27. Install and tighten the screw holding the end of the instrument panel top cover. Install the left side instrument panel/fuse panel cover.
    More coming.....
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    Ignition switch

    1. Disconnect battery.
    2. Remove airbag, two hex/torx/or philips head screws in the back of the bag holding it in.
    3. Remove wheel. 24mm socket required for this. This is expose the clock spring area. Inspect that.
    4. Remove top steering column cover. Two philips screws holding in under the bottom cover. Top cover comes off. The wiring for the horn is in there as well.
    5. Remove instrument cluster. Two screws holding that in. Have a flat head handy as well to aid in unplugging the connectors for the cluster.
    6. You will see the ignition switch to your right and the harness. Put key in ignition, remove harness, just unplugs. How there will be two small screws holding in the switch. Often, if the switch has never been replaced, they will be covered by a red paint. Take a small philips screw driver and loosen the two screws, no need to remove em. Ignition switch should just slide out.
    7. Have new switch handy. No more than $40 even from dealer. Slide switch in. Its good to remember the way the old one came out. Screw down switch, plug in harness.
    8. Install the cluster, column cover, and wheel in reverse order from above.
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    How do you change ignition switch in 1985 ford bronco ii

    You will need to remove the trim pieces below the steering column. Then there is a small cable that goes to the gear indicator, remove it from the column. There will be 2 nuts,(4 on some models) holding the column up. Remove those and let the column rest on the seat.The ignition switch is mounted on the top side of the column tube and held in place with small bolts. Remove those then un plug the switch and replace it. Good Luck
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