Q: CAR ONLY STAYS ON WHILE HOLDING KEY AS SOON AS I LET GO OF KEY CAR SHUTS OFF

asked by on October 29, 2016

IS THIS A IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER PROBLEM OR A IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEM

My car has 60000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Car is hard to start Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Ignition Switch Replacement $178.14 - $866.79 Get a Quote

The ignition switch is going to be the most common failure for the ignition loosing contact in the run position of the switch. If you can hold the ignition in a position toward start position and can keep it running without the starter engaging then the problem is inside the ignition switch. Replace the ignition switch on the steering column and retest. If you need assistance, a certified YourMechanic technician can be dispatched to your location to help inspect your difficulties starting your vehicle, or replace the ignition switch for you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Whining noise from the rear, very loud now
This is a problem with the rear differential making a growling noise as you increase speed. The issue was identified by Toyota and addressed in technical service bulletin TSB-0080-13, dated June 2013. The NHTSA has also published a safety bulletin...
How do you check the engine oil?
Checking the engine oil is a vital part of being a responsible car owner. Even if you’re incredibly punctual about having your car serviced, you still need to keep an eye on the oil level to prevent potentially damaging the...
Brake pads - replacing them voids warranty?
They probably quoted you the price "per axle" - meaning $320-$400 for front and $320-$400 for rear. Brakes are always replace per axle - meaning front or rear. You never just replace one side only. Replacing brake pads with non-Infiniti...
Fuel gauge is not working and stays on empty.
The false empty reading on your dashboard can be caused by several different components. One of which is the fuel modules themselves. If they both have failed, it is likely do to an electrical power or data connection feeding into...
After Monroe struts installed and multiple alignments, vehicle pulls.
Hi there. When it comes to alignments, check the Caster and Camber to your vehicle. These two angles are pulling angles. Keep in mind, most shops will set the Caster to allow the vehicle to drift to the left to...
How much does a gear replacement switch usually cost?
Hi there. We're not quite certain what you're requesting. If you could provide us with more details about what problem your Acura is experiencing or what you are wanting to replace, this would be quite helpful.
P0300 Random misfire.
Without seeing the fuel trim readings in the computer to see if the engine is running too lean then it would be a guess that you have a vacuum leak between the mass air sensor and the intake manifold or...
WHY WON’T MY CAR START !!??!
This may be a sign of a faulty ignition coil. Ignition coils (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-coil-replacement) are coated with a varnish-like insulation that becomes brittle over time after being stretched then contracted repeatedly. The insulation develops small fractures that open when heated and...
I have replaced alternator, battery, and all wiring but car still shuts off while driving and all electronics reset, but car start
Diagnosing an electrical problem like you've described is one of the more difficult things to complete - even for a professional mechanic. In some cases, an exposed wire that may sometimes come in contact with metal will cause this type...

Related articles

How Does a Push-Button Start Work?
For the vast majority of people, cranking your car involves getting the key out, sliding it into the ignition, and turning...
How Often Should the Ignition System Be Inspected?
Your Your ignition system is a critical part of both your car and daily driving experience. If it isn't working correctly, you could experience anything from poor engine operation to engine stall or failure to start. It’s critical that you...
How Often Do Spark Plug Wires Need to Be Changed?
Spark plugs provide the electricity necessary for combustion to happen by igniting atomized fuel in an engine's cylinders. However, they need a...