Every time you start the engine on your Mercury Villager, you do it with the ignition key. Over time, that repetitive motion can break down the internal components and connections in the switch, until eventually, the switch fails. When it does, you'll be stuck without a way to turn over the engine. To fix the problem, the switch needs replacement.
Remove the screws on the bottom of the steering column cover using the Phillips-head screwdriver. Then unbolt the steering column reinforcement just below the column cover using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket.
Unbolt the lower shroud and move the upper column shroud out of the way using the ratchet. Unscrew the ignition switch from the cylinder using the Phillips-head screwdriver.
Lift the switch out of the cylinder with your hands. Follow the wiring to the switch down to the fuse box. Disconnect the harness and remove the ignition switch from the vehicle.
