Ignition Switch: Description and Operation

DESCRIPTION
The ignition switch:
- is mounted on the steering actuator housing.
- is controlled by the lock cylinder through a pin which is part of the actuator assembly.
- controls the mechanism which provides a positive lock for the transmission linkage and the steering system. The locking mechanism is located in the steering column lock cylinder housing at the upper end of the steering column assembly.

The ignition switch has blade-type terminals that engage with one multiple connector. The multiple connector is secured to the ignition switch by integral locking fingers.

A push-button steering wheel lock mechanism is used on models equipped with the floor-mounted shift system. This button, on the RH side of the steering column assembly, must be pushed in before the ignition key can be removed.

OPERATION
The ignition switch positions are the following:
- ACC
- LOCK
- OFF
- RUN
- START

With automatic transmissions, the ignition key can be removed from the ignition switch only when the gearshift lever is in PARK position and the ignition switch is in LOCK position.
- The ACC position operates while the steering and transmission systems remain locked.
- Turning the ignition switch to OFF position shuts off the engine without locking the steering or transmission systems.