Nissan Repair: Problems starting 96 Nissan Sentra, nissan sentra, dashboard lights

Question
Hello,

Our 1996 Nissan Sentra is having starting problems. When you turn the key, all of the dashboard lights and radio and AC come on full blast, and the battery is only about 1 year old, so we don't think it's a power issue. The key has to be turned very far (about 180 degrees from insert position), and sometimes held, before the engine will start to turn over. When that doesn't work, usually all you have to do is turn the key back to the off position and then try again. Once the engine turns over, it starts right up and runs great. Is this more likely an ignition or starter issue, and how can we tell? Thanks in advance for your help!

Answer
Aloha

Looks like it is the ignition switch.

To be sure, get a circuit light tester and connect the probe to the small terminal of the starter when turning the key. If there is no power, then it is the ignition switch on the column.

Hope this helps
aloha
calvin