Steering Column Switches: Other Ford Escape II

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is controlled by the ignition lock cylinder with a key. When the ignition lock cylinder is turned using the key, a mechanical connection positions the ignition switch to the selected position and allows the ignition switch to send voltage to the Battery Junction Box (BJB) and the SJB. The ignition switch also contains a key-in ignition system that allows the SJB to detect when the key has been inserted in the ignition switch. The ignition switch and cylinder are part of the steering column lock module and can be serviced separately. For information on the brake shift interlock system, refer to AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION EXTERNAL CONTROLS - 6F35 or AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION EXTERNAL CONTROLS - HYBRID . The available ignition switch positions are

1. OFF
2. ACC
3. RUN
4. START

Multifunction Switch

The multifunction switch controls the various components (high beam headlamps, flash-to-pass, turn signal and windshield wiper) by grounding certain SJB circuits and wiper motor circuits. When the SJB detects the specific ground, it sends a voltage to the appropriate component to activate it. The SJB controls the high beam headlamps, the flash-to-pass and the turn signals. The high beam headlamp and the turn signal portion are normally open switches that close when activated. The flash-to-pass switch is a momentary contact switch that grounds the SJB high beam headlamp circuit. The windshield wipe and wash functions are controlled directly by the multifunction switch, wiper and washer motor.

Ignition Switch - Mechanical

The following conditions can cause difficulty in operating the ignition switch and lock cylinder

1. Burrs on the lock cylinder key
2. Insufficient lube on the lock cylinder
3. Binding lock cylinder
4. Burrs or foreign material around the rack and pinion actuator in the lock cylinder housing
5. Insufficient lube on the actuator (Do not apply lubricant to the inside of the ignition switch.)
6. Binding ignition switch

If the steering wheel lock is engaged with the wheels loaded against a curb, high effort will be necessary to turn the key from lock. Turn the steering wheel to either side of the lock to unload the system.

Perform the following test to determine if the ignition switch and lock cylinder are operating correctly.

1. Inspect the ignition key for any burrs, damage or incorrect cut. Replace the ignition key as necessary.
2. Turn the key to the ACC position and then the RUN position. If the ignition key turns to the ACC and RUN position, continue with Step 3. If the ignition key will not turn to the ACC and RUN position, continue with Step 4 .
3. Turn the ignition key to the START position and release the key. If the ignition switch and lock cylinder return from the START position back to the RUN position without assistance, the ignition switch is operating correctly at this time. If the ignition switch and lock cylinder do not return from the START position back to the RUN position without assistance, continue with Step 4.
4. Remove the ignition lock cylinder. Refer to «HANDLES, LOCKS, LATCHES AND ENTRY SYSTEMS»(ref-344107) .
5. Rotate the ignition lock cylinder through all of the switch positions. If the lock cylinder operates correctly, continue with Step 6. If the lock cylinder does not operate correctly, install a new ignition lock cylinder. Refer to «HANDLES, LOCKS, LATCHES AND ENTRY SYSTEMS»(ref-344107) .
6. Check for binding or sticking ignition switch actuating rod, burrs around the rack-and-pinion actuator in the ignition lock cylinder housing or insufficient lubrication. If there is sufficient lubrication and there are no burrs, binding or sticking conditions, install a new ignition switch. Refer to «IGNITION SWITCH»(ref-344080-S09166045452009101600000) . If there is insufficient lubrication, burrs, binding or sticking conditions, repair or lubricate as necessary.

Ignition Switch - Electrical

Refer to SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS - ESCAPE or SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS - MARINER for component testing.

Multifunction Switch - Electrical

Refer to SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS - ESCAPE or SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS - MARINER for component testing.

Scheme 21

PART DESCRIPTION CHART