Need a new ignition switch, what should I expect to pay & where to get one?

[OneSexy240]

This past week I went to start my 1992 240 SX LE (147,000 Miles, about half driven in the Dallas area and half in the Chicago area) and the ignition wouldn't budge. I tryed josteling the steering wheel and turning the car over again and again with no success, the ignition lock and key release are froze up. The key goes in and out without a problem and the audio chime alert ( I guess the warning switch) works also when the key is in the ignition. Also, after peeling back the interior covers to have a better look, I noticed that when josteling the steering that there is slack and a slight 1/8 to 1/4 inch or so movement down and back up of the entire ignition as well as the steering lock assembley that has the sheered screws.Last night a pro mechanic stoped by to take a look, he thinks a new ignition switch is needed, and said the rest may or should be good. I spoke with the local Nissan dealership over the phone and explained all I have above, and the parts advisor said that it sounds like I will likely need the ignition switch and lock kit, which was quoted at $192.00, and just the ignition switch and 2 new sheers for $85.00.I have not ever replaced or repair any of these parts myself on this or any other car, I did find some help in my 2 Chiltons guides, doesn't seem like that difficult of a job, on paper anyways, esp. if only replacing the ignition switch. I've done minor to novice repairs in the past, anything more advanced has only been with body work. It would also probably help to know the easiest way to remove the sheerd screws... drill, chisel and unscrew or other method? Also, what is the going rate for labor if I have someone else do one or the other? Any words of wisdom with any of this would be greatly appreciated.The cars recent repair history, ... radiator, hose and water pump, body work damage repair throughout and painted entire car, blown fule injector replaced, tie rod ends replaces, performance exhaust replaced, replaced air intake hose, tune up, all in past 1-2 years as well as other general maintainence. There is also a moisture problem where I live, I've been dealing with problems inside the house but the car air system has also recently smelled of mildew, mold or both at times. Is there anything I can use or do for this as well as we have alergies to both and a new 4 month old baby.Hope all this covers it, any other questions or needed info, let me know...Much thanks...Joe, Ivona & Ariana

Modified by OneSexy240 at 9:56 AM 7/29/2005
Modified by OneSexy240 at 9:58 AM 7/29/2005

[Dano]

check out our Advertiser's Special's forum, we have a few dealerships that sell OEM parts at a discounted price for NICO members only

-Dan

[OneSexy240]

Thanks Dan for the info & visual... will check both out. Joe

[Dano]

-Dan