Suddenly my '03 ignition switch will no longer move to the Accessory Position.

It WILL start to move toward Accessory, but just a TAD. Far enough to actually switch the accessories ON, but not nearly far enough to move toward the detent. The switch is released, it immediately snaps back to the "OFF, Remove Key Position."

The key EASILY turns to the right of OFF to "Off, but steering unlocked," "ON," and to the "Start" positions normally.

It's just like a mechanical "stop" that prevents the Accessory position from being engaged.

Is there a way to access the switch to possibly repair it, and if not, is the switch replaceable without having to get a new tumbler with new keys (which are not cheap, of course)?

I can live without the Accessory function, but has anyone else experienced this malfunction, and then had the switch fail to where the OTHER positions become inoperative? I'd hate to get stranded somewhere if this is the prelude to a failure making the vehicle unusable.

Thanks-

 

I had this problem in a Chevy truck years ago. Just replaced the tumbler before any other issues happened.
Not sure how hard these are to replace but it would probably be a good idea.

 

I bought a switch today to try first in case it's the electrical portion that has suffered a mechanical failure since it was $26, vs. about $220 for the lock tumbler (that's for the tumbler, and the cost of 3 new keys programmed to match the anti-theft computer.

The fact that the tumbler seems to work fine in 3 of the 4 position gives me some hope that something is restricting it in the 4th position.

 

following this Im having problems with mine going into Start.

 

You mean that when going from "ON" to "START" you feel binding or additional pressure is needed to turn the key, or it will not turn all the way to the mechanical stop you used to be able to reach?

 

happens intrmidlently when going from off to start wont move at all.
Have tried lubing with dry graphic wd 40 3 in one oil. No help

 

Off to start is 3 steps (off-locked, off, on, start).

Do you mean the key won't move even to off from off-locked clockwise at all, or it won't move from on to start? Will it turn counter clockwise to accessory?

I'm trying to understand if the tumbler moves out of the key-insertion position, which is off-locked, at ALL, or like w/ me only ONE position is restricted.

If your key wont move at all, I'd be inclined to guess it is the lock assembly (tumbler) itself.

 

it wont move any direction when it acts up.

 

That sure seems like the lock tumbler, then.