Ignition switch

[sulzerman]

Hi all 

Upon starting my engine the key will not spring back,  I have to physically turn the key back to stop the 

starter turning. 

I assume the switch should spring back, not the key barrel. 

I just want to make sure iorder the right part!

Thanks in advance,  stay safe!

[Colin Lindsay]

The key moves to the 'starter' position and on starting is released back to the 'ignition on' position; it should spring back, but I'm not sure what you mean when you say that the 'switch should spring back, not the key barrel'. The key barrel is attached to the moving parts of the switch so both move as one. It sounds like your switch has lost or broken the return spring and you're having to manually turn it back? The switches are very cheap, probably buying a replacement is much easier than trying to repair one, and you can replace the barrel if you want to keep your original key. 

[dougbgt6]

I had this on a Peugeot 306, it would not let go! Finally an excessive squirt of WD40 down the barrel sorted it, probably not the answer, but worth a try. Had to do it every year or so ever after.

Doug

[Nigel Clark]

Is the switch firmly attached to the dash? The 'start' position is spring loaded so the key should obviously return to the 'ignition on' position when pressure is released from the key.

But if the switch barrel is loose in the dash, the pressure when starting will cause the whole switch to turn. The answer is to tighten the chrome bezel that holds the switch in the dash.

Nigel

[sulzerman]

Thanks for the replies.

It must be the return spring that has broken in the switch. It is all fitted tight in the column (its on a 2000) 

I will order a new switch

 

[poppyman]

Take the switch off first and use a screw driver to test. I had the same on a 2000 and it was the steering lock itself that had fallen to bits. Just hope it is the switch, easy to test. Steering lock was expensive.....

Tony.

[sulzerman]

Hi Tony 

Tried it with a screwdriver, turned it but doesn't spring back.

thanks for the reply👍

[thescrapman]

20 hours ago, sulzerman said:

Thanks for the replies

I will order a new switch

 

Knowing what the top cost, I would be very tempted to have a go at fixing first