Electical Gremlin...

[cweberj30t]

Driving me crazy! It only happens at start up. The stereo (stock Bose) windshild wipers, and climate control won't work. I have to turn off the car and re-start it (most times more than once) and then everything works fine. It is extremely bothersome and I can't pinpoint the problem. I doubt it's a fuse, it wouldn't work at all. It may be a loose harness, but that seems unlikely as well. Could be alternator, but only happens at start up. Any thoughts as to what it might me???

[maxnix]

Ignition switch? Is it worn badly by having 3 lbs. of keys on the key ring with the ignition key?

[cweberj30t]

Not terribly. The key does wiggle around a bit. You think that would cause the stereo, climate control and windshield wipers to not work? If so, would I have to replace the ignition switch? Everything works fine in auxillary position but when I start it is when all hell breaks lose. What do you think?

[cweberj30t]

The key itself is very worn. Almost to the point where it needs to be replaced. The teeth are worn and it is much thinner width than it used to be. Could that be the case?

[cweberj30t]

Maxnixed-

I played around with it and it turns out that the ignition switch was sticking a little bit and not returning. It is pretty loose, but if I turn it back a little bit it works. Any ideas on how to tighten the switch without replacing it?

P.S. Thanks a lot for your help

[maxnix]

Sorry, but not possible in all likelyhood. Switch is probably worn. Disassembling it may reveal a method of repairing it, but not likely.__________________Brian1995 Q45 & Q45t & 2000 Q45

Discover the power of the button!

[TechGizmo]

Spray some WD-40 in the key way and insert/remove keys several times and see what happens.

[maxnix]

WD-40 never recommended for locks since it is hygroscopic. Use a real lock lubricant sparingly.

Besides, your problem seems to be with the switch contacts.__________________Brian1995 Q45 & Q45t & 2000 Q45

Discover the power of the button!

[TechGizmo]

Hygroscopic, as in readily absorbing moisture from the atmosphere. From what I understand the WD stands for water displacement so it dispels H2O no harm there, however using a real lock lubricant wouldn't be bad advice.

However, if all else fails I would try spraying an electrical contact cleaner hoping it reaches the electrical contacts wherein lies the real problem.