Hey guys so my TLs got 233xxx(0_o) and shes been reliable as hell but on the way to work today while on the highway she would shut off and then turn back on. Then when I slowed down after paying tolls it shut off I started smelling burned plastic and saw white fumes coming from behind the steering wheel. The only way it would start after that is if I held the key all the way like starting it and when I let go it would shut off.

From my research it seems to be the ignition switch but I just want some confirmation cz times are rough right now and I don't wanna go waste money when it could be something else...

 

What year? 99s were really the only ones with the ignition issues.

Take the covers off the steering column (the 3 screws from underneath) and take a look at the ignition switch and wiring.

 

see the diy section for more help if needed..3rd item down the main gen2 thread title list NEW OFFICIAL DIY blahblah

99??? its the ignition switch BACK part- just the electrical = not the front key section== sold separate-- and not needed

smells are usually melting wires so DO NOT DRIVE ANY MORE!!
FIRE BAD!!!!

LOCAL parts stores are the way to go,,better than oe for this part
iirc its under 50 bucks,,call a few big name places as its a very common part failure
nearly every 99 will go thru 2-5 in its life
other years may have same prob if you carry many keys,,have lots of miles etc

if fsttyms says its the switch,,and I TOTALLY agree with him on this one= thats your problem
the gurus have spoken

 

ps you described textbook symptoms of the ig switch faiure