1998 Ford Explorer windshield wipers, windows, interior lig

the only common item in the electrical circuit is the ignition switch,

but that doesn't explain the interior lights.

are there any other items that stop working?

I believe the 4 wheel drive goes out too.

that's in the switch too.

when you said interior lights, what lights are you talking about.

[quote:c445f0da9e="buddycraigg"]that's in the switch too.

when you said interior lights, what lights are you talking about.[/quote:c445f0da9e] the ones on the headliner. when you say ignition switch, do you mean where you put the key in?

[quote:8f0210f5a6="oebb1"]the ones on the headliner. [/quote:8f0210f5a6]
Now that part doesn't make any sense. Those are normally turned on and off by some sort of body control module.

[quote:8f0210f5a6="oebb1"]when you say ignition switch, do you mean where you put the key in?[/quote:8f0210f5a6]No, the place you put the key is only the mechanical lock, I'm talking about the electrical switch that the lock is connected to.

No, the place you put the key is only the mechanical lock, I'm talking about the electrical switch that the lock is connected to.[/quote] Does replacing this swiitch require any special tools or equipment? Should I have a pro do this job?

[quote:2f608d69ab="oebb1"] Does replacing this swiitch require any special tools or equipment? Should I have a pro do this job?[/quote:2f608d69ab]
It's pretty simple to do with normal hand tools.

The good news is they are cheap.
The bad news is you need to be a contortionist to be able to get to them.

it's mounted on the steering column, kinda above your knees.