I could use some help guys/ladies.
My wife's 08 Escape has an issue with the ignition key actually sticking in spots when turning to the start position, then we almost have to turn it back to the run position, it doesn't spring back like it used to, and should do.
It's an 08 Escape, XLT V6 AWD, auto transmission.

Any ideas

Bob

 

My guess is its sticky. Used to be a little graphite in it would free things up and not collect dust. I haven't looked but you may look at taking the plastic around the column off and seeing if you can use canned air or a compressor to blow away as much dust/gunk away and out of the ignition area then finding a good way to lubricate it using something that will not collect dirt and such.

 

I would suspect the actual electrical ignition switch itself. It is under the steering column cover, to the left of the lock cylinder. I would take a look at that. The other alternative is the mechanical parts of the lock cylinder. They can be disassembled if you know what you are doing. You can remove the lock cylinder to inspect and check that it is binding or moves freely. You will need a strong paperclip, with one portion straight. Put the key in the lock, put the paper clip in the hole on the 'rearward' side of the lock cylinder and push it in firmly. You hopefully will feel a 'pin' depress, at which time, you rotate the lock cylinder further counter-clockwise. It is then removable. Just pull it out.
Powdered graphite is an excellent lock cylinder lube. (you can also use it on noisy volume controls on older radios with pots. It will lube the slide, and apparently is conductive, so the signal still passes.)
tom
Oh to re-install, just place the lock cylinder back into the cavity, and rotate towards the "ON" position. You will feel it snap into place. It will then be as before.
tom

 

I'm not taking that switch apart, haven't been in it, and not wanting too either.
But I've wondered about the Powdered Graphite. I've used it in lock assy's with good outcome.

 

The ignition switch in my little Ranger pick up started to stick. It wouldn't turn on and sometimes wouldn't turn off. I tried holding pressure on the steering wheel, which worked for a while but eventually that stopped working too. In the end, I discovered that it was the key itself. I forgot my key one day and ended up using my spare. The ignition switch worked like a charm. All I had to do to fix it was start using the spare key. My truck has 261,000 miles on it and I carry the key on a ring in my pocket (along with several others). Apparently the key wore itself out.