Ignition switch replacement question...

[SoCalPhil]

So I posted a thread the other day that I wasn't able to crank the starter and have pretty much ruled out an anti-theft lockout. I'm going to end up replacing the ignition switch and have seen a couple of walkthroughs online. Is it really as easy as it seems? Just remove the lower panel cover, metal bracket and then unplug the wiring harness, unscrew the old switch and then screw the new one in?

I just want to make sure there's nothing tricky I should be on the look out for.

Thanks to everyone here for their help on this one.

 

[RomeovilleIL]

Pretty much it, but recommend you disconnect the battery and let sit at least ten minutes beforehand so the airbags de-energize just to be safe.

 

[viper12775]

you may need to have the ecu re flashed to work with the new key

 

[yavapaires]

He's replacing the ignition switch, not the lock cylinder. Two different things.

 

[viper12775]

duh sorry had a long day you right no re flash lol

 

[TheBook]

I have a 99 Limited 5.0. Just replaced the ignition switch. Have a Chiltons Manual and their instruction are to remove the steering wheel, air bag etc. totally wrong.

Not needed at all.

First I moved the seats all the way back.

I disconnected the negative battery cable

Removed the steering wheel covers and then afterwards found that it was not necessary. Used a small wrench to loosen the tilt lever and then twisted it out by hand. It looosens CCW

Removed the lower dash panel cover that involved 2 screws plus the 2 for the hood release. Slid the panel upwards and it came off

There is now a steel plate that has 5 bolts. Removed that.

The ignition switch is now exposed. Needed a #30 torx to remove the 2 screws and than a socket to remove the wire connector/plug. Can take the switch off and then remove the wire plug.

Replacing the switch make sure that the sliding rod on the switch is in the same position as the one that you took out or it won't fit back in or may not start.

After making sure that they are in the same position try to put it in. You can screw it in or remove it to install the wire plug. I installed the plug before putting the switch back.

After the switch is in I connected the battery cable to make sure that it started and everything worked. Took the cable back off just to be safe. Don't know it it was required.

Installed the steel plate, and steering wheel covers and tilt lever that didn't have to come off. and the lower panel.

Didn't take too long but could have saved some time by not messing with the covers on the steering wheel.

.