I have a 1995 Cobra with tilt wheel. Last night, I started the car, but now it will not turn off. The actual key switch moves as it should, but it doesn't appear that the rod will move the electrical part.

I believe my best bet is to change the steering column. Any pitfalls? Any tips?

Thanks,
Mark

1988 Mustang LX, 2.3 Liter, 5 speed
1995 Mustang Cobra, 5.0, 5 speed

 

Can't you just change the ignition switch?

 

my friend had the same problem in his mustang, and he was able to swap in a new ignition switch.

 

I pulled the key and tumbler assembly, but didn't find anything wrong. I thought maybe the end had broken off. That has happened to me before in a '77 LTD II.

My buddy, who is a locksmith, thought that maybe the rod that goes down to the switch had broken. He said that is somewhat common in cars with tilt wheel.

At this point, it seems to be easier to find a good column and change it out than it does repairing mine.

 

If the ignition switch is anything similar to the one on my audi a6. You may need to replace it. Your key/lock assembly may be ok, but the ignition switch is the actual relay that tells the car...."ok I'm on now, so the driver can now use the power windows, horn, a/c....etc." Also same issue if you turn your car on, but the starter sticks and or may be turning off.

 

We have already ruled the key switch and the ignition switch out. With the cover off the column, and the electrical part of the switch removed from the column, we can lay in the floor board, look up, and see the rod that runs from key switch to the electrical ignition switch is broken. When the key is turned back and forth, we can see that it pushes the switch to the start position, and it will return to run, but when we bring the key back to the off position, the part of the rod at the electrical switch is still in the run position.

At this point, we don't know what would be easier? Repair the column, or replace it. Has anyone had to change this rod? Or if we replace the column, what do I need to watch out for? I want my cruise and air to still work after I am done.

Mark

1988 Mustang LX, 2.3 Liter, 5 speed
1995 Mustang Cobra, 5.0, 5 speed