Chrysler Repair: Starting the 96 Grand Caravan 3.3L, grand caravan, key cylinder

Question
Kevin,

When I go to start, the Caravan and I turn the key to the start position you know how the doors will lock well, when I go to the start position it ends up doing nothing. When it is doing nothing it is not clicking or anything like that. However, when I turn the key back a little bit and the doors stay locked. Then I turn the key to the start position again and it will start.  To me it sounds like the starter.  However, about 6 months ago, I had to have the control module replace because nothing on the cluster worked.  The reason I am telling you this is because, I don't know if this has anything to do with the car acting up when I try to start it.  I hope this make since.


Answer
Hi Marshall,
My thought would be to check the function of the 5 sections of the igntion switch to verify that each is closing the circuit from the battery as it is supposed to do. Once you know that you can either clean the contacts/replace the switch or look further at the circuit. To get to it you have to remove the steering column cover (the large panel that includes the parking brake release handle, by removing 3+ screws that hold it in place), then disconnect cable from parking brake release handle, then remove screws on the underside of the column proper to remove the shroud that hides the ignition switch). If you would like to test for voltage to appear at the various positions of the key cylinder on the 5 different pins of switch connector, let me know and I will list what to look for.
Roland