Starting strange

Tiny
A3636
  • MEMBER
  • 2009 FORD FOCUS
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 147,000 MILES
The car only starts (usually) when you simultaneously jerk the steering wheel and turn the ignition switch.
Friday, July 6th, 2018 AT 10:06 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,289 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using .

Wow, that is an interesting one, but anything is possible. First, keep in mind, the tumbler where you place the key is not the switch. The ignition switch is an electrical component located below the steering wheel in the column. Based on your description, it sounds like either you have a loose connection or the switch itself is going bad.

I have attached a picture of the component for you to see both the part and its location. It is picture 1.

If you decide to check the switch and its wiring, here are the directions. First, you need to power down the airbag system. Follow the directions in this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/air-bag-removal-steering-wheel

Note: The directions in the aforementioned link are for removal of the airbag. In your case, focus only on what to do before starting. Disconnecting the battery.

1) Power down the airbag
2) Remove the column opening cover
3) For vehicles with tilt wheel, release the tilt lever
4) Remove the upper and lower steering column shrouds (see picture 2)
5) Disconnect the switch connector
6) Release the two retainer tabs and remove switch.

Replacement is reverse of removal. Check to see if the connector is lose or damaged. If it is not, suspect the switch itself.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Sunday, July 8th, 2018 AT 9:14 PM

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