TIP: Ignition switch replacement (smoking)

[Anastasio]

1990 CRX Si, 181,000mi
A few times a year I have had a problem starting the car. Car would start up when the key is turned but die as soon as the key is let go. Had the problem this week, got it started but then 15 miles later when I stopped at a light I saw wisps of white smoke coming from the steering column (never good!).

Turned out to be the ignition starter switch. It was wearing out (dirty & worn inside). One of the contacts was arcing and heating up, enough to melt the solder on one of the leads!

This switch sits behind the ignition lock and is attached with 3 screws (you get to keep the same keys).

Instead of just cleaning it, I bought a replacement switch from Auto Zone. Got a Wells part #LS883 for $60. Direct replacement except one of the screw holes was too small for the existing screw - replaced screw.

Now, the car starts right up and even appears to idle much more smoothly.

Hope this helps someone else in the future...

A

 

[motsco_ _]

1990 CRX Si, 181,000mi
A few times a year I have had a problem starting the car. Car would start up when the key is turned but die as soon as the key is let go. Had the problem this week, got it started but then 15 miles later when I stopped at a light I saw wisps of white smoke coming from the steering column (never good!).

Turned out to be the ignition starter switch. It was wearing out (dirty & worn inside). One of the contacts was arcing and heating up, enough to melt the solder on one of the leads!

This switch sits behind the ignition lock and is attached with 3 screws (you get to keep the same keys).

Instead of just cleaning it, I bought a replacement switch from Auto Zone. Got a Wells part #LS883 for $60. Direct replacement except one of the screw holes was too small for the existing screw - replaced screw.

Now, the car starts right up and even appears to idle much more smoothly.

Hope this helps someone else in the future...

Honda replaced several MILLION ignition switches a few years ago in a huge campain. All three of my (slightly older) Hondas qualified for the free fix. One had been dying at the most innoportune times :-(

'Curly'

 

[TeGGeR®]

1990 CRX Si, 181,000mi
A few times a year I have had a problem starting the car. Car would start up when the key is turned but die as soon as the key is let go. Had the problem this week, got it started but then 15 miles later when I stopped at a light I saw wisps of white smoke coming from the steering column (never good!).

Turned out to be the ignition starter switch. It was wearing out (dirty & worn inside). One of the contacts was arcing and heating up, enough to melt the solder on one of the leads!

Which one? There's no such thing as an "ignition starter switch". You must mean the RUN contact.

This switch sits behind the ignition lock and is attached with 3 screws (you get to keep the same keys).

Oh, you mean this?:
http://www.tegger.com/hondafaq/startproblems.html#ignitionswitch

 

[shellbell]

How do you clean it?

 

[shellbell]

are they still replacing them free if it was in the recall?

 

[SoCalMike]

How do you clean it?

if its anything like my VW rabbit, the switch is under the column, and attached to the lock cylinder. it all comes undone, and the switch MIGHT be able to be popped open to clean all the burned pitted crap out, but im sure its easier to just replace.

 

[SoCalMike]

are they still replacing them free if it was in the recall?

yes. if it was involved in the recall, it should have already been replaced.

 

[Bozo]

are they still replacing them free if it was in the recall?

Safety recalls do not normally have a time limit. Goodwill on the other hand (such as extended warranty) does

 

[Gordon McGrew]

How do you clean it?

Put it out first.

 

[shellbell]

What does it look like i took the dash boards away and the only thing I fount that was held together by a few screws was a little white box that had a piston thing coming out of it.. Also is there a diagram or directions to do this stuff?? Thanks a bunch for all the help!!

 

[TeGGeR®]

What does it look like i took the dash boards away and the only thing I fount that was held together by a few screws was a little white box that had a piston thing coming out of it.. Also is there a diagram or directions to do this stuff?? Thanks a bunch for all the help!!

Jeez. Turn quoting on, will ya? And please, learn to type proper English.

http://www.tegger.com/hondafaq/startproblems.html#ignitionswitch

 

[motsco_ _]

are they still replacing them free if it was in the recall?

Probably, YES. Call your dealer and tell them you're having these troubles. Don't mention you've been screwing around with it or they may say Forget It. Their tech can change one of those units in fifteen minutes with one hand tied behind his (/her) back. Get it done.

'Curly'