1996 850 Key turns, won't start (Intermittent)

[KirstenGK]

Last month I diagnosed an ignition switch problem via this forum. Thanks! Replacing the ignition switch solved the problem we were having with the car key turning but not starting, then the shift override would lock up, lights and spedometer stopped working etc. until the next start.

However, now the car occasionally won't do anything when the key is turned. None of the ignition switch tricks work, but the basic problem is the same. Turn the key, nothing (lights all come on though). 5 minutes or 5 hours or 5 days later it starts fine.

So my question is- new ignition switch seems to have solved part but not all of the problem. What else could be wrong in there? I need this car drivable for another six months

[scot850]

Try the basics first. Have the battery tested. Check all the battery connections and cables for condition and clean all the connections and earth straps.

There may still be a problem with the ignition switch, but it may also be the transmission park position sensor. Try rowing the gearshift lever back and forward a few times and see if it will start then. This may help further to look into the issue.

Also have a good look at all the fuses in the fuse box. I had problems with corrosion on some of the fuses and cleaning then and the contacts made a huge improvement.

Neil.

[KirstenGK]

Is there more to the ignition switch? Something else in there that could cause this? It's not the battery. We'll check the fuses and next time it won't start I'll try the gearshift rowing trick.