How can I get access to ignition switch? - 2002 Lincoln LS

Disconnect the battery: Before beginning any work on the electrical system of your vehicle, disconnect the battery to prevent accidental shocks or short circuits.
Remove the steering column cover: The ignition switch is located on the steering column, so you'll need to remove the cover to access it. Depending on the exact model and trim level of your Montero Sport, the cover may be held in place with screws or clips.
Remove the ignition switch: Once you have access to the ignition switch, you'll need to remove it from the steering column. This may involve removing any retaining screws or clips that are holding it in place, as well as disconnecting any electrical connectors.
Install the new ignition switch: Install the new ignition switch in the reverse order of the previous steps, making sure that it is securely fastened to the steering column and that all electrical connections are properly connected.
Test the new ignition switch: Once the new ignition switch is installed, reconnect the battery and test the switch to make sure that it is working properly. Insert the new key and try to start the engine. If the engine starts and the key can be turned smoothly, you've successfully replaced the ignition switch.
It's worth noting that depending on the specific make and model of your Montero Sport, the exact steps for replacing the ignition switch may vary slightly

ignition starter switch located on steering column, similar to picture, you must lower the steering column to access:



not your vehicle, but very similar. here is what your looking for:



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

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

You have to disassemble the Steering Column down to the Ignition Switch. Then you will have access to the Ignition Switch

It's the dimmer switch....follow below:

Without Air Bag The ignition switch is located on the lower part of the steering column.

1. Place the ignition in the LOCK position
   

Ignition/dimmer switch assembly

1. Remove any components necessary to access the switch.
   
2. Remove the two switch mounting screws.
   
3. Disconnect the switch from the rod.
   
4. Disconnect the wiring and remove the switch.
   

To install:



Ignition switch rod positioning

1. On non-tilt columns:
   
   1. Move the ignition switch slider to the OFF unlocked position (move the slider all the way down, then back two clicks). The remote rod hole in the ignition switch slider should now be centered.
      
   2. Insert the remote rod in the ignition switch slider hole and install the ignition switch on the steering column. Tighten the attaching screws to 35 inch lbs. (4 Nm).
      
2. On tilt columns:
   
   1. Insert the ignition key in the lock cylinder and turn the cylinder to the OFF unlocked position.
      
   2. Move the ignition switch downward to eliminate any slack and tighten the attaching screws to 35 inch lbs. (4 Nm).
      
3. Install any components removed for switch access.
   

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



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!!

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.
The ignition switch is operated by the key switch. Courtesy of Ford Motor Company. 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.

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.



The ignition switch is operated by the key switch. Courtesy of Ford Motor Company. 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.

Its possible that this video can helped (for Explorer)...


Good luck.

The steering wheel does have to come off to access the ignition lock cylinder, however the ignition switch is mounted to the column and does not require the wheel to be removed. A locksmith would have rekeyed the lock cylinder. The high beam switch is mounted of the left side of the column and is actuated by a 6 inch long rod. This does not require the wheel to come off.

SECTION 419-01A: Anti-Theft — Perimeter 2002 Explorer/Mountaineer Workshop Manual DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION Anti-Theft —Perimeter The perimeter anti-theft system consists of the following:

• driver door disarm switch
• vehicle security module
• keyless entry remote transmitter
• door ajar switches
• liftgate ajar switch
• liftgate glass ajar switch
• hood ajar switch

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Anti-Theft —Passive The passive anti-theft system (PATS) contains the following components:

• theft indicator
• encoded ignition key
• PATS transceiver module
• powertrain control module (PCM)
• standard corporate protocol (SCP) communication network

Principles of Operation
The PATS uses a specially encoded ignition key. Each encoded ignition key contains a permanently installed electronic device called a transponder. Each transponder contains a unique electronic identification code out of over 18 billion, billion combinations.
The passive anti-theft system (PATS), also known as SecuriLock ®, uses radio frequency identification technology to deter a drive-away theft. This system is known as SecuriLock® in North America, Safeguard® in the U.K., and PATS in Continental Europe. Passive means that it does not require any activity from the user.
The SecuriLock® System (PATS) is not compatible with aftermarket remote start systems, which allow the vehicle to be started from outside the vehicle. These systems may reduce the vehicle security level, and also may cause no-start issues. If equipped the remote start system must be removed before investigation of PATS-related, no-start issues.
Each encoded ignition key must be programmed into the vehicle's powertrain control (PCM) before it can be used to start the engine. There are special diagnostic repair procedures described in this section that must be carried out if a new encoded ignition key is necessary.
This system contains a new feature named Unlimited Key Mode. This feature allows a customer to program more than eight keys to the vehicle if they request it. Each vehicle in Unlimited Key Mode is set up with a special Unlimited Transponder Security Key. This allows all the customer vehicles to share the same keys, but no other keys from outside can be used to operate the vehicles. For an individual customer, any randomly selected Security Key is acceptable. Refer to Unlimited Key Mode Programming in Key Programming Switch State Control in this section.
The PATS transceiver module communicates with the encoded ignition key. The module is located behind the steering column shroud and contains an antenna connected to a small electronics module. During each vehicle start sequence, the transceiver module reads the encoded ignition key identification code and sends data to the PCM.
The control functions are contained in the PCM. This module carries out all of the PATS functions, such as receiving the identification code from the encoded ignition key and controlling the engine enable. The PCM initiates the key interrogation sequence when the vehicle ignition switch is turned to RUN or START.
All elements of the PATS must be functional before the engine is allowed to start. If any of the components are not working correctly, the vehicle will not start.
The PATS uses a visual theft indicator. The indicator will prove out for three seconds when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START under normal operation. If there is a PATS concern, this indicator will either flash rapidly or glow steadily when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START. The PATS system also flashes the theft indicator every two seconds at ignition OFF to act as a visual deterrent.
The PATS will be activated and will disable the vehicle from starting if there is a:

• incorrectly encoded ignition key
• damaged encoded ignition key
• unprogrammed key
• non-encoded key (key has no electronics)
• damaged wiring
• damaged transceiver
• damaged PCM

Inspection and Verification

1. Verify the customer concern by operating the system.

1. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical and electrical damage.

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Key Programming Using Two Programmed Keys NOTE: This procedure only works if two or more programmed ignition keys are available and it is desired to program additional key(s). If two keys are not available, follow the procedure in Key Programming Using Diagnostic Equipment in this section.
NOTE: PID SPARE_KY must be enabled for this procedure to operate. If this PID is not enabled, follow the security access procedure above and select SPARE KEY PROGRAMMING SWITCH: ENABLED.
NOTE: If the programming procedure is successful, the new key(s) will start the vehicle and the THEFT indicator will illuminate for approximately three seconds.
NOTE: If the programming procedure is not successful, the new key(s) will not start the vehicle and the THEFT indicator will flash. If the programming procedure was not successful leave the ignition switch in the RUN position for at least 30 seconds then repeat the key programming procedure from Step 1. If the failure repeats, refer to Diagnosis and Testing to review the DTCs and carry out pinpoint tests as necessary.
NOTE: A maximum of eight ignition keys can be programmed to a passive anti-theft system (PATS) equipped vehicle. If more are needed, refer to Key Programming Switch State Control in this section.
NOTE: If the steps are not carried out as described, the programming procedure will end.
NOTE: Ignition keys must have correct mechanical key cut for the vehicle and must be a PATS encoded key.
NOTE: If the vehicle is in unlimited key mode, this spare programming procedure still functions. Any two keys that can start the vehicle may be used to program in an additional unlimited key.

1. Insert the first programmed ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from OFF to RUN (maintain the ignition switch in RUN for three seconds).

1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF and remove the first key from the ignition lock cylinder.

1. Within seconds of turning the ignition switch to OFF, insert the second programmed ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from OFF to RUN (maintain the ignition switch in RUN for three seconds).

1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF and remove the second key from the ignition lock cylinder.

1. Within 20 seconds of turning the ignition lock cylinder to OFF, insert the unprogrammed ignition key (new key) into the ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from OFF to RUN (attempt to start the vehicle).

1. If it is desired to program additional key(s), repeat the key programming procedure from the beginning.

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NOTE: The security access procedure is utilized to obtain passive anti-theft system (PATS) security access. PATS security access must be granted to erase ignition keys, enable/disable unlimited key mode, and enable/disable the spare key programming switch (PID SPARE_KEY). The security access procedure invokes an inherent 10 minute time delay prior to granting security access during which the diagnostic tool must remain connected to the vehicle. Once security access has been granted, a security access command menu is displayed which offers various command options. (For additional information, refer to Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Configuration Command Index).
NOTE: Once security access has been granted, multiple security access commands should be executed (if necessary) prior to exiting the command menu. This avoids the carrying out of an additional security access procedure and the associated 10 minute time delay.

1. From the diagnostic tool Ford Service Function (FSF) card, enter PCM. Select SECURITY ACCESS. This procedure will take 10 minutes to carry out, during which the ignition switch must be in RUN and the diagnostic tool must be connected to the vehicle.

1. After the 10 minute security access procedure has been completed, a new menu will be displayed with command options. Select only those functions necessary before exiting out of this menu. Once exited out of this menu, the security access procedure must be repeated again to carry out additional commands.

If your Golf is like my Audi A4, you'll have to remove the steering wheel in order to access all the column trim screws. Do that, and you can remove the column trim to get to the ignition switch.