Replacing an ignition switch on a 2000 Ford Mustang is a job that can be done by most people without significant auto repair experience. The switch is located in the steering column housing, and it can be easily removed once the appropriate trim panels have been taken off and the lock cylinder has been removed. The replacement process does not require any special tools, and you should be able to complete the job in about 30 minutes.
Remove the negative cable from the battery.
Remove the bottom trim panel underneath the steering wheel. Loosen and remove the screws at the bottom of the panel and pull the retaining clips from the fastening points.
Turn the key to the "RUN" position.
Remove the lock cylinder surrounding the ignition. Locate the small hole on the bottom of the steering column cover. Place a small screwdriver through the hole and depress the tab on the cylinder. Once the tab is depressed, remove the cylinder from the ignition.
Remove the screws on the bottom of the steering column cover. Take off the bottom part of the cover.
Loosen and remove the switch retaining screws. Detach any electrical connections to the switch and remove the ignition.
Attach the electrical connections to the new switch. Mount the switch in place by replacing the retaining screws.
Replace the bottom steering column cover.
Depress the tab on the lock cylinder and slide it over the ignition.
Replace the bottom trim panel.
Reconnect the negative battery cable.
