Windows work only when ignition in ACC position

[sebrame]

My first post here, so please be gentle. The windows on my '96 Eddie Bauer only work when the ignition is turned to the ACC position, or whatever that may be called these days. After cranking, they work for about a second or two longer, then stop, and cannot be operated again until you shut off, then turn the key back to ACC.

I've got the driver side door panel off, and I'm checking for frayed or broken wires, but nothing yet. Am I looking at an ignition switch problem?

Thanks!
Steve B

 

[koda2000]

sounds like it might be a bad connection in the ignition switch. another poster recently had the opposite issue (radio didn't work in acc position). it turned out to be broken switch.

 

[deweyville65]

+1, Sure sounds like a bad ignition switch to me. Dont forget, the ignition switch itself is on top of the steering column down close to the firewall.

 

[sebrame]

Great! Now if I could just get to it. Looks like I have to remove the entire instrument cluster bezel to get down there.

 

[deweyville65]

Great! Now if I could just get to it. Looks like I have to remove the entire instrument cluster bezel to get down there.

Even though I have not personally had to get to the ignition switch on my Explorer, I think you should be able to reach it by laying on the floor. Probably remove the lower panel under the steering column. Do yourself a favor and get a Haynes or Chilton manual. Not everything is in the manuals, but they get you through most repairs. Too expensive at the parts house. I buy mine through Amazon, or E-Bay.

 

[koda2000]

removing the instrument cluster isn't necessary (and will not give you access to the ignition switch).

i would think you should be able to get at with the lower panel removed. there are 4 screws across the bottom edge of the plastic trim panel (2 of which hold the hood release to the dash) then there are 2 push-in metal pins near the top corners of the panel, use a screw driver or similar tool to pry them out. beneath the plastic trim panel, you'll see a metal panel which is held on with 4 bolts. then you'll have good access to the steering column.

while your in there, take note of where your turn signal flasher is located for future reference, if necessary adjust the thumb-wheel to center your PRNDL pointer, and check the two gold colored T50 torque bolts that hold your shifter to the column as they tend to loosen up and even fall out.

 

[sebrame]

Thanks! I'll give this a shot. Don't know what's going to cause me the most difficulty - the fact that I weigh 300lbs, or that it took me several minutes to figure out what my 'PRNDL pointer' is! I almost went into the bathroom to use the mirror!

 

[koda2000]

Thanks! I'll give this a shot. Don't know what's going to cause me the most difficulty - the fact that I weigh 300lbs, or that it took me several minutes to figure out what my 'PRNDL pointer' is! I almost went into the bathroom to use the mirror!

i too am caloricly challenged, though you've got a few pounds on me... if you need more room to work, you might consider removing the driver's seat. 4 bolts, a few wire connectors and the seat belt bolt. do not force the seat bolts. if they're rusty you can snap them off. that would be bad.

 

[sebrame]

Well...I finally got around to replacing the ignition switch. First of all, many thanks to those who helped - it was really quite simple once the correct path was lit by you folks.

Unfortunately, it didn't solve my issue, although at least now I have a perfectly aligned PRNDL pointer!

So, eliminating the ignition switch, would anyone have any other ideas that I might check before I take it to a shop?

 

[sebrame]

So, no ideas of what might be the problem?