Has anyone replaced this? I don't know where to start (I believe it's in the steering wheel). My Chilton's is gone, my Hayne's doesn't even have a section on replacing it! I know it's the only thing that could be keeping my car from starting, as I've tested everything else. My car just goes "click" when I turn the key. It's not the starter because I've had this problem for about 3 years, only it would eventually start after enough turning. Today, however, I clicked the damn thing for about five minutes straight before giving up and attempting to fix the problem. I already have the part, I just need help with how to get to the old one so I can replace it...

 

Do a search for shoebox, then go to his web page. He has a detailed descripted page on your problem with pictures.

 

Remove lower dash, two 7mm bolts at the lower edge and two philips head screws about halfway down. Get the lower panel out of the way. There is a black metal piece that looks like a "V" that has one nut on each side at the top. Unbolt and remove. There are two nuts that hold the steering column up in place. Unbolt and lower the column. I always felt more comfortable doing this if the battery was disconnected because of the airbag.

Anyhoo, once you do this, drop the colum down as far as you can. There are two nuts and a philips head screw that hold the ignition switch in. From here you're on your own, because I can't really describe what you need to do, you'll just have to see for yourself. But it's not too terribly hard. Just be sure and get everything hooked back up again. Also if the car doesn't start, you may have to go back and reposition the switch, it will move just a little bit.

Good luck
John

 

Yes, there is an R&R on my Tech Page.

 

well, I replaced it and still the car won't start!!! I checked all fuses, none burned out. My battery is at full charge. Did my starter solenoid burn out so suddenly and so soon after replacing it (I replaced it in March '03). I mean it gave me absolutely no problems before!! Am I overlooking something????

 

I haven't pulled the starter off to test it, but the wires LOOK fine. I haven't tested them with a voltmeter either. Any suggestions?

 

See if you are getting 12v on the purple wire on the starter when the key in in the START position.