Question1996 Ford Taraus GL 3.0 L V6
Tonight I went to start my car, and I turned the ignition....and nothing. You seem to be able to turn the thing with "no tension" and even when you turn it all the way (to the start position) it does not start. Even when I took the key out, it was like I still had the key in the ignition (like when you have the key on, but haven't started the car yet). Any thoughts?
Also some background. For many years now whenever the drivers door is open, the car dings as if you left the keys in the car. Also a few times this winter, even after you closed the door, it would ding (for an hour or so). I'm guessing this is related to the problem I am having now. I know at one time a Ford Dealership told me it was some security thing that probably broke off in the ignition, they stated it was common.
AnswerHi Erin,
If I am understanding you correctly, the key turns with basically no resistance, and the key and cylinder seem to be in the wrong position. Inside the steering column, there is a rack-and-pinion-type gear setup hooked directly to the key and cylinder assembly. The rack is what actuates the ignition switch, and they break often. The whole steering column has to be removed and disassembled, all for a 6 dollar part :-(
The actual key and cylinder is where the key-in buzzer switch is located, which are also known for problems. The cylinder assembly can also fail and give you a similar actuation problem, if not the same. That is the easier part to check first, because you can pull it out by putting the key in the on position and disengaging a pin that is accessible through a hole in the steering column shroud. Either way, it looks like you might have to tow it to a shop, sorry. Good luck! Shaun.
