Ignition Switch Replacement DIY?

[Samonoske]

Anyone know how to replace the ignition switch?? I was thinking I could go borrow a few from the junkyard cause mine is no longer working.(got a wire that goes into the coil). Someone said that if you replace the ignition switch you have to use a new key too.. Is that true?

[djcaz_aom]

If you are changing the switch, then you can keep the same key. If you changing out the lock cylinder, then you will also use a different key, unless you get a locksmith to re-key the new cylinder.

[AaronRVegas]

If you are changing the switch, then you can keep the same key. If you changing out the lock cylinder, then you will also use a different key, unless you get a locksmith to re-key the new cylinder.

he is right about this. there are 2 parts to the ignition. while sitting in the drivers seat with the steering column removed the right side where you put your key is the locky cylinder and the other side is the ignition switch. it has a white end round kind of plug maybe 1 1/2 inches deep and a long plug on the end. it just plugs into the driver side kick panel fuse box i believe. i removed that cover under the steering column when i did mine and ran it through there since i have no steering column cover on my car.

the ignition switch in 100% inside the car. if you are working under the hood you are working on the ignition coil or ignitor. both those are components of the distributor. the coil i think has no wires attached to it. just sits in there and has 2 screws that go through it. the ignitor (small silver thing should fit in the palm of your hand) has 3 or 4 wire plugs on it.


changing the ignition switch is literally a 3 minute job after you get the steering column off(idk how long this takes b/c my car was missing it when i got it)

changing the ignitor might take you 15 minutes if you never taken the distributor apart before. also dont forget to use the grease that comes with teh part if you change this out.