My FD has recently begun acting up (vehicle will randomly power on w/o the key being inserted, draining the battery when I'm gone and the engine will keep running after the key is removed) and it has been suggested to me that the ignition switch is probably to blame.

I'm interested in fixing this myself, however I've never messed with with the ignition system before, and have a limited knowledge of electronics. So I'd def need to learn before I just go digging into the steering column and start randomly poking, prodding, and oiling parts.. My current "fix" is to simply disconnect the negative lead from my battery whenever I park the car, this ok as a very short term solution, however I really want to get this squared away soon.

I would greatly appreciate if anybody could direct me to a walk-through for trouble shooting/fixing the ignition switch.


Thanks,

Levi

 

Bump.

Anybody??

 

I'm not sure the switch is serviceable -it is a pretty well sealed unit.



You can replace the switch. In the US it is about $250 for a new switch and you also need to get it keyed by a locksmith to match the car key.

And, as a shameless plug, I'm also selling an ignition switch and a complete key set in the classifieds.

 

Dale Clark had a procedure on that but his link is dead. Here is another one that may help: https://www.rx7club.com/showthread.p...gnition+switch

 

Yeah, what sucks is the switch is sold as two separate units, the 'mechanical' side like you picture, and the electrical side. All told it goes for nearly $400 for crying out loud!

fendamonkey should just buy yours.

 

I'll def keep you in mind, thanks!

Though, tbh, if I can't fix the problem with the one I've currently got in my car than I'll probably just pick up the entire shebang (Ignition switch, and both door handles) from a buddy of mine who's got a breaker or two.

I'll shoot Dale a PM and see if he's got it saved somewhere else... thanks for the lead Dave!

 

Coincidentally, a local car had much the same symptoms quite recently unrelated to the ignition switch.

Probably in your best interests to check front body harness attachment/tyre clearance in bump/inner guard liners in place......'cause if you think an engine harness is expensive, you don't want to price that particular piece new when the tyre wears through it!

 

If the problem is in the ignition switch, it is almost surely in the electrical portion and has nothing to do with the key assembly. If it is anything like the Miata ignition switch (I don't know), maybe this Miata Forum article will give you some idea of the procedure.

 

I'm not sure the FD switch can be separated in this way. I will take a look at mine when I get home to see if it can.