It only starts when I turn the key to start then let it go back a little and hold it.

run circuit wire is in the wrong place on the start switch

This sounds like the chip in you key is not communicating to allow you to start the car. If you go to a dealer and explain this to them I think they will verify this and get you a new key. The key is usually about 100 dollars.

Try to turn the steering back or forward little if you feel loose then hold and turn the key.

Mai Lor

I have an 2002 Escape. I can think of three possible issues:
You're using the wrong key. Duh.
You have a bad ignition switch. Extremely unlikely.
Your steering wheel is pushing against the steering lock. I just went out to my Escape to confirm this on mine. This happens sometimes if you park against a curb, or parking block. The steering wheel is pushed against the lock pin, and the key can not be turned.
Trying turning the sterring wheel back and forth. There should be some play or shake. If no play, turn the steering wheel a little harder in either direction until it moves a little, hold it, and try the key.

For the disbelievers, this can happen on most cars. Go to your car and hold some pressure on turning the steering wheel. Try turning your key from off to start.

turn the key so everything is working but the car isn't started. then push and hold the little black button that resets the odo. while holding the button turn the key all the way back to the off. next time you start the car it should switch back to F.

I have had this problem on two separate honda accords. Can you keep the engine running if you turn the key to start and then let the key come back just a little? I have had two faulty switches. I could keep the engine running but I had to hold the key between run and start position.

your ignition switch under your dash onthe steering column is bad.unplug the wire harenss and take out the two screws,replace lookunder the switch there is a small hole for the key lever position the hole to go over the lever rod put the screws back in turn the key and it will start.if it does not start adjust the switch by loosening the screws a little and moving the switch whit one hand while starting with the other hand.after it starts tighten sown the screws and put the cover back and your done.

If the starter is new, and you hear it spinning, then the flywheel is bad and needs to be replaced

possible dead starter -- see if you can hit starter a few time and try to start car.

the neutral safety switch maybe out on the car