1992 Acura Legend - engine turns over and starts, but won't stay on when the key is released on springs back to the "on" position. If only allow the key to partially return just short of the on position, the engine will continue to run. When the key returns all of the way to the "on" position, none of the instrument lights stay on. Does the ignition switch need to be replaced?

Thanks for your answer. I'm a locksmith (including automotive), so I know something about ignition lock cylinders and how the tail piece interconnects with the electric ignition switch. When the key is turned to the "on" position, none of the lights on the instrument panel light up. But if you turn the key to a little beyond the on position, the dash board will light up. The key won't stay in this position; rather, the key (ignition cylinder) wants to spring back to the "on" position. It's almost as if the ignition switch is off by about 10-15 degrees. Does this help to confirm your answer about one of the sectors in the switch being worn? Thanks for your answer. I'm a locksmith (including automotive), so I know something about ignition lock cylinders and how the tail piece interconnects with the electric ignition switch. When the key is turned to the "on" position, none of the lights on the instrument panel light up. But if you turn the key to a little beyond the on position, the dash board will light up. The key won't stay in this position; rather, the key (ignition cylinder) wants to spring back to the "on" position. It's almost as if the ignition switch is off by about 10-15 degrees. Does this help to confirm your answer about one of the sectors in the switch being worn?

I just re-read your answer. The key stays in the position where it's supposed to be as the ignition face is marked. The problem is that those positions don't seem to be properly aligned with the switch, or at least where the switch thinks it's supposed to be. I hope this helps to clarify my situation. I just re-read your answer. The key stays in the position where it's supposed to be as the ignition face is marked. The problem is that those positions don't seem to be properly aligned with the switch, or at least where the switch thinks it's supposed to be. I hope this helps to clarify my situation.