Dodge Nitro. Manual — part 896

REMOVAL

SWITCH-IGNITION

Fig. 18: Identifying Ignition Switch Mounting Screw, Ignition Switch & Arm
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

1. Remove the steering column shrouds.

2. Remove lock cylinder. See REMOVAL.

3. Remove the multi-function switch.

4. Disconnect the electrical connector at the rear of the ignition switch.

5. Remove the ignition switch mounting screw (1). Use tamper proof torx bit to remove the screw.

6. Pull the ignition switch (2) straight out to remove from the locking tabs.

INSTALLATION

SWITCH-IGNITION

NOTE:

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key
cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch.

NOTE:

Tilt arm (3) must be moved to allow removal of the switch.

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

2007 STEERING Steering System - Nitro

Fig. 19: Identifying Ignition Switch & Switch In ON Position
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

1. Before installing ignition switch (1), rotate the slot in the switch to the ON position (2).

Fig. 20: Identifying Ignition Switch Mounting Screw, Ignition Switch & Arm
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

2007 STEERING Steering System - Nitro

2. Position the switch (2) to the column and install tamper proof screw (1). Tighten screw to 2 N.m (17 in.

lbs.).

3. Connect the electrical connector to rear of ignition switch. Make sure that locking tab is fully seated into

wiring connector.

4. Install the lock cylinder. See INSTALLATION.

5. Test the operation of the lock cylinder for smooth rotating.

6. Install the multi-function switch.

7. Install steering column lower cover.

KEY-IN IGNITION SWITCH

DESCRIPTION

SWITCH-KEY IN IGNITION

The key-in ignition switch is integral to the ignition switch, which is mounted on the left side of the steering
column, opposite the ignition cylinder. It closes a path to ground for the instrument cluster chime warning
circuitry when the ignition key is inserted in the ignition lock cylinder and the driver door jamb switch is closed
(driver door is open). The key-in ignition switch opens the ground path when the key is removed from the
ignition cylinder.

The key-in ignition switch cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the entire ignition switch must be
replaced. See REMOVAL.

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

SWITCH-KEY-IN IGNITION

For circuit descriptions and diagrams, Refer to the appropriate sections on the individual components.

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable. Remove the steering column shrouds. Unplug the key-

in ignition switch wire harness connector from the ignition switch.

2. Check for continuity between the key-in switch sense circuit and the left front door jamb switch sense

NOTE:

Tilt arm (3) must be moved to allow installation of the switch.

NOTE:

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder installation. The
key cylinder must be aligned with the ignition switch for installation.

WARNING:

On vehicles equipped with airbags, refer to electrical - passive restraint
systems before attempting any steering wheel, steering column, or
instrument panel component diagnosis or service. Failure to take the
proper precautions could result in accidental airbag deployment and
possible personal injury.

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

2007 STEERING Steering System - Nitro

circuit terminals of the key-in ignition switch. There should be continuity with the key in the ignition
cylinder, and no continuity with the key removed from the ignition cylinder. If OK, go to step 3. If not
OK, replace the faulty ignition switch assembly.

3. Check for continuity between the left front door jamb switch sense circuit cavity of the key-in ignition

switch wire harness connector and a good ground. There should be continuity with the driver door open,
and no continuity with the driver door closed. If OK, see the diagnosis for Instrument Cluster in this
group. If not OK, repair the circuit to the driver door jamb switch as required.

KEY CYLINDER

REMOVAL

CYLINDER-KEY

Fig. 21: Removing Key Cylinder
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

The ignition key (1) must be in the key cylinder (2) for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed
first before removing ignition switch.

1. If equipped with an automatic transmission, place shifter in PARK position.

2. Remove the shroud covers.

3. Remove the remote keyless entry (S.K.R.E.E.M) module.

4. Remove the halo ring around the cylinder.

5. Rotate key to RUN position.

6. A release pin is located on the bottom of the key cylinder (5) with the access hole on the top of the lock

cylinder housing (3).

7. Position a small screwdriver or pin punch (4) into pin access hole (5).

8. Push the pin punch (5) up while pulling key cylinder (2) from lock cylinder housing (3).

INSTALLATION

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

2007 STEERING Steering System - Nitro