Has anyone ever replaced the ignition key switch?
Went to leave work and put the key in and it turned on the power but there was no resistance like engaging the starter switch just free spun to the stops.

I left it at work but will go back in the morning with tools and didn't know how feasible it would be to get a new ignition switch and just replace it? and if its a dealer only part or if I could get one at an autoparts store?

and i could do it in the parking lot with hand tools?


Thanks in advance!


JT

 

Switch is available at Napa for about $32
Here's instructions> http://dodgeram.org/tech/repair/elect/ign_switch.htm

and part D here> http://dodgeram.info/tsb/recalls/875/c-875.htm

 

That is excellent info! Thanks so much! I will pick up a switch and swap it out in my parking garage at work now!

on top of it all I CAN KEEP MY SAME KEY!

 

Beware if you change out the ignition switch in a public place, it looks like you are hi-jacking the vehicle. I did my Jeep switch in a shopping center parking lot
and aside from all the odd looks I got from passers-by, one guy said he nearly called police on me!
Good Luck!

 

I considered that yesterday when I was taking apart my stearing column on friday afternoon when everyone was leaving from work. But today the parking garage was dead...I'd think a crook would be a whole lot faster at it than me!


But it was the key cylinder. Part of the metal that turns the inside of the ignition switch chipped so. so replaced the cylinder (sold as a separate unit) and its all good to go!


The down side is now I have a separate key for the ignition than the doors. I wonder if it'd be cheaper to get two doors rekeyed to match or just go to the dealer and get a key cylinder that matches?

 

Most any locksmith can change the little pins in the ignition cylinder to match your old key.

Every time I've replaced a key switch it amazes me how easy it would be to steal a vehicle. Maybe not as fast as a professional thief but there's really not much to it.

 

I know what you mean. I quickly got used to the extra key though.