Country24

I have a 97 max and i have a problem when i go to start it. When i go to start the car i turn the key all the way and it wont start, sometimes it takes two or three times before it starts right up. Then other times it doesn't do it at all. Is it the ignition switch or starter? Let me know what you think thanks.

oldngivout

iTrader: (8)

Ignition switch. Common problem, dealer has fix for about $30.

Nopike

iTrader: (2)

Could be ignition switch, starter, battery or connections between these items. Anyone who tells you they are sure of the cause is just guessing. Make sure sure battery terminals are clean and tight. The last time I tried to help someone with a starting problem that was the cause. Usually I would assume someone checked this obvious cause. Also check power and ground connections at the starter. If you had a voltmeter and knew how to use it you could check if voltage is getting to the starter when you turn the ignition key. Some times you just have to go through the process of elimination to fix the problem. The ignition switch is cheaper and easier to replace then a starter so you might try that first.

Country24

I got a new battery a month ago connections are good but when i put the key in the ignition i can move the key up in down, it is loose. So could it be the ignition switch?

Nopike

iTrader: (2)

. Ignition switch is probably worth a try, cheap and easy to replace. Consider pulling your starter and getting it tested at auto zone or somewhere like that. Some people hit the starter motor with a mallet and that frees the stuck solenoid inside then it starts.

DBear

"Takes two or three times." Does the starter crank at all, or do you just get dashboard lights and nothing else? If just the lights, that's the same problem I had. I replaced one ignition switch, but the problem came back. Eventually I decided it was the ignition switch again. I think the problem is that the flange in the key cylinder doesn't push the ignition switch all the way over sometimes. I put a piece of electrical tape in the slot on the ignition switch, just to make a tighter fit, and it's been fine for 3 or 4 months now.

Country24

yea when i turn the key two or three times just the lights on the dash turn on. Starter does not crank at all. So i should just replace the ignition switch? Another thing when i put the key in the ignition i could move the key up and down a little like it is loose or something. Is this normal?

DBear

Start by taking the ignition switch out (not very hard). There's a slot where the flange from the key cylinder fits. You can turn that with a key or a screwdriver. I bet it will start for you. If so, it's probably just some play between the flange and the switch. A new switch might fix it, or it might go out again later on. Try the elelctrical tape hack. If it doesn't work, it might be the switch or something else, and you'll need to do some serious troubleshooting. There are a ton of threads on this lately, a search will turn them up.