98 avensis 1,8 not starting

[Discodave777]

Hi all ,, I’ve inherited an avensis 1.8 in excellent condition , only 73 k on the clock .. 1998

Lovely car my dad drove for years .. or so I thought ….. 

at times turn the key … nothing / silence . I’ve changed the relay and thought that was the problem , but no . I think the ignition switch itself is worn . So I’ve ordered a new one .

how easy is it to fit myself ?? 
 

any advice appreciated 

thanks .

 

the car does start & runs fine , smooth as Silk ,, but im Worried one day it won’t turn over at all 

[Bper]

Hi Dave,changing the ignition switch should be straightforward so firstly disconnect the Battery to avoid any electrical problems while working on the car.Then you need to gain access to the ignition switch,you might need to remove the steering column cover or any of the surrounding panels.Disconnect the electrical connectors,it is a good idea at this stage to either take a picture or to note the positions of the connectors to ensure you can reconnect them correctly later. Taking pictures or video can help.Then remove the old ignition switch.Its possible that there may  be a retaining clip or screw holding the switch in place so remove it. Now install the new ignition switch and make sure it is aligned and secure.Reconnect the electrical connectors, and double check that everything is correctly plugged in.Replace any of the column panels that you removed during disassembly. Next reconnect the Battery and test to see if the car starts and functions normally.Hope this helps.

[1.33]

1 hour ago, Discodave777 said:

at times turn the key … nothing / silence .

Have you checked the starter motor? Are there any lights on the dash when you try and start, or do they all go out when the key is turned and attempting to start?

[talldave]

I had the same problem on my 1998 Avensis quite a few years ago. It was quite easy to fit the new switch (along the line of what Bper says above). I think there was a 'how to' post on here somewhere - but it was quite a while ago. Anyway it fixed the problem. I think it is a known/frequent problem with the ignition switch on this model.

[talldave]

This is the one: