I have a 1988 Jaguar vdp, when i go to start the car the dash lights go out, and turns the starter. But no power goes to ignition. I have changed the ignition switch. Don't know what it could be?

in what way is it hard to start does the engine turn over fast or slow, fast is low compression in the piston chambers slow can be the battery or the starter motor wearing out. ( starter motor has bushes to turn the motor these wear out and cannot turn the engine over fast enough to start.

it should be on the rear suspension a frame at the lhs

What year and model. Turn on headlights and turn key to start , do the lights dim if they do starter is faulty. If not check the thin wire to the starter is connected

There's a harnes behind the ignition switch small#1philip screw harness about 12-16 inches long 1 plug change harness all set.

Fixed Problem (it was my van) no power to ignition wire at starter. Replaced Ignition lock cylinder. just worn down. (Delivery van 50-60 starts a day). 160k miles.

many things will cause no start problems could have faulty ignition switch.use test light see if power going to starter if not check ignition fuse to starter.if power going to starter, more likely starter solenoid or starter faulty.if ignition fuse okay and starter and solenoid okay still no start problem could be in the ignition switch or inhibitor switch faulty.code scan for faulty theft security system which will also cause no start conditions.

I've heard this could be an O2 or "lambda" sensor failure.

your Ignition Switch is bad here is how to replace it
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.

Given the ease of re-start I would check the ignition switch unscrew the shroud behind the wheel to expose the switch and with a volt meter find the perminant live and the switched ignition, sta rt and joggle the wires and see if you can get it to fail.

Hey John,

This is very common, because your battery is dead your remote isnt going to work. So what you have to do is look by the license plate light bulbs, their is a key hole wear you can insert you key and open the trunk to charge/ or jump start your battery