1998 Ford Escort Is it the ignition switch?

THEBREADHEAD

MEMBER
1998 FORD ESCORT
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
115,000 MILES

I just went to start my Escort and the dash lights and radio lit up as they should when I turned the key, then just a click and then nothing.

Now, when I turn on the four-way flashers, there is just a weird buzzing/clicking sound in the fuse area with no blinkers. Press the horn, and I get a click in a relay (or whatever) down in the fuse area.

I pulled the column covers off, and popped the wiring end of the ignition switch out so I could operate it with a screwdriver. Can get the dash lights and radio to light up occasionally (with wiggling), but when I turn the switch full on to the START position, all lights dim and nothing happens. Except maybe a faint click down around the starter.

Also, when I turn on the headlights with the 'key' (screwdriver) in any position. No light just a faint click down around the fuse area. My dome light works fine, though, if that makes any difference.

I ASSUMED the ignition switch is the culprit here, but the horn and four-ways and headlights not working is what's throwing me. Can anybody shed some light on this?

3 Replies

RACEFAN966

MECHANIC
5,029 POSTS

First I need to know how the battery is. Have you taken the battery to your local parts store to have it tested? If not please do that first so we can be sure the battery is good. It may not be and with the modules that control things full battery power is a must. Let me know what you find out.