1994 Pontiac Grand Am Repair and replace the Ignition switc

are you replacing the actual switch or just the lock cylinder (where key inserts) ?

My husband says that the switch itself needs to be replaced! Thanks for your help so quickly! This is a friends car we're talking about!
Liz Piker

Blue Lightinin!
I just got some more info on this---the car starts but then the key justs "makes it's way back to the off position!" Does that help?
Liz

Okay, proper replacement procedures are below..


REMOVAL:

Disconnect the negative battery cable.
If equipped, disable the SRS system.
Detach the left instrument panel insulator.
Remove the left instrument panel trim pad and the steering column trim collar.
Unfasten the steering column upper support bracket bolts, then remove the support bracket.
Lower the steering column and support it safely.
Disconnect the wiring from the ignition switch.
Unfasten the ignition switch-to-steering column screws. Remove the ignition switch from the steering column.



INSTALLATION:

Before installing, place the slider in the proper position (switch viewed with the terminals pointing up), according to the steering column and accessories:

Standard column with key release-extreme left detent


Standard column with PARK/LOCK-1 detent from extreme left

All other standard columns-2 detents from extreme left

Tilt column with key release-extreme right detent

Tilt column with PARK/LOCK-1 detent from extreme right

All other tilt columns-2 detents from extreme right




Install the activating rod into the switch and install the switch to the column.
Do not use oversized screws as they could impair the collapsibility of the column.
Connect the wiring to the ignition switch. Adjust the switch, as required.
Install the steering column.
Fasten the steering column trim collar, instrument panel trim pad and insulator.
If equipped, enable the SRS system.
Connect the negative battery cable and check the ignition switch for proper operation.





Let me know if you need further assistance with this repair.

[quote:eba18bdb2c="loyalpiker"]Blue Lightinin!
I just got some more info on this---the car starts but then the key justs "makes it's way back to the off position!" Does that help?
Liz[/quote:eba18bdb2c]


sounds more like a faulty lock cylinder then switch.

Thank you SO much, Blue Lightnin! If it is just a lock cylinder, is the procedure different? What needs to be done then? I hate to bug you, but you are really, really helpful AND knowledgable and I just need to pick your brain if that's OK! (This is a single Dad with not mcuh income and we're just trying to help him!)
Liz

Here are the steps for the lock cylinder replacement. REMOVAL: Disconnect the negative battery cable. Remove the AIR BAG fuse. Remove the left side insulator panel. Disengage the two yellow 2-way SIR connectors. Remove the tilt lever, if equipped. Remove the upper and lower steering column trim covers. Insert the key in the lock and turn it to the ON position. Remove the lock cylinder by pushing against the locking button on the back of the bearing/housing assembly, and pulling outward.

INSTALLATION: Install he new lock cylinder into the housing. Gently push the lock cylinder into place while rotating counterclockwise. Install the upper and lower column covers. Install the tilt lever, if equipped. Engage the two yellow 2-way SIR connectors. Install the left side insulator panel. Install the AIR BAG fuse. Connect the negative battery cable. The ignition switch is the electrical portion of the ignition system that activates the entire ignition system when it is turned ON. It is turned on by the lock cylinder turning and actuator turning the switch. The lock cylinder is the mechanical portion where key is inserted that activates the switch on and off. This is the portion that would cause the key to turn back to OFF after you turn it on. Hope this helps..

You have really helped, Blue, I sent you a little sumpin for letting me bug you! Just wish I could have sent more!
Liz Piker

no problem and thanks for the donation. just let me know if you need anything else.