Fix the ignition switch? (2003 QX4)

[dk203040]

Is there some part in the ignition switch that needs to be replaced or repaired?

Some times nothing happens when I turn the ignition key.

It stopped being a problem for awhile, by me making sure that I pushed the key in fully before turning.
But today nothing happen when I tried the start today. No sound nothing.
Finally after many tries, the QX4 started normally. 90,000 miles. The QX runs fine otherwise.

Any clues?

Thank you.

[VStar650CL]

The ignition switch is separate and attaches to the back of the cylinder with a pair of phillips screws. Part number is 48750-0M010, it's a very common one which fits a crapload of Nissan and Infiniti models.

[dk203040]

Thank you. Much appreciated!!! I see the part on Amazon offered by many sellers.

Would it be a mistake to purchase anything other than genuine from Nissan?

I assume that you are saying that this is the part that seems to be malfunctioning.
Is there anything particularly difficult or tricky regarding replacing it? I haven't looked at the diagrams yet.

[VStar650CL]

The OE switches aren't anything special. I don't know if I'd go China-cheap, but you're probably fine with a reputable aftermarket part. The only thing tricky about replacement is that on some models the screws are hard to get at because of the dash supports. I frankly don't recall whether there's anything in the way on an R50.

Whether it's actually the problem is a different question. The vehicle is certainly old enough that it could be a bad switch, but it could also be bad brushes in the starter or a balky starter relay.

[dk203040]

Thanks again! Still haven't look at the manual diagrams yet.

Could you tell me where to look for the starter relay, and what's involved in testing it?

Again, much appreciated for the help.

[VStar650CL]

The best test to see where the matter is, is to first eliminate or implicate the starter. Put a test lamp on the smaller terminal at the starter and have an assistant turn the key. If you get a nice, bright light then the problem is in the starter and the relay and switches are eliminated.

There's no actual "starter relay" on your QX, but the signal does pass through the PNP (park-neutral) relay. That's in the relay box on the passenger side fender.

[dk203040]

Will do. Thank you for the help!

[dk203040]

I cannot see how to get to the ignition switch in order to change it out.

I do not see how to remove the shrouds around the steering column.

Help please.

[VStar650CL]

See ST-11 here:
https://www.nicoclub.com/service-manual ... 3%2FST.pdf

The column cover is a clamshell with 3 or 4 phillips screws recessed into the bottom. Remove the trim ring around the cylinder (pries loose), then remove the screws and pry the clamshell halves apart with a plastic prybar. You may need to tilt the wheel and/or relieve the tilt lever to get the covers off.

[dk203040]

So I only need to remove the clamshell and not the wide panel below? I couldn't see how to get the kick panel off.

Thank you!

what's the best way to post images from the manual?

[dk203040]

how did I do that? I've got one more.

[VStar650CL]

I'm not sure if you need to loosen the lower dash, but IIRC that's just two screws and a bunch of pawls. You don't need to remove that on most vehicles with the cylinder on the outer column, because tilting the wheel down usually gives you enough clearance to pull off the top clam.

[dk203040]

Will try this Sunday.

[dk203040]

[dk203040]

The deed is done. New ignition switch successfully installed and is working (so far ). The no-start ignition switch was intermittent problem. I'll report back if the no-start happens in the future.

The only thing difficult with replacing the ignition switch, was getting to the upper Philips screw on the switch, without removing the lower driver side panel. You need a short small Philips, (which i did not have). The lower half of the steering column clam-shell shroud doesn't come out without removing the lower panel. (I didn't see the screw to remove the lower panel, so I struggled without removing it). Other than that, it's pretty much plug and play replacement.

Thank you @VStar650CL for the excellent help!!! Much appreciated.

[VStar650CL]