Ford Police Interceptor Sedan Ignition Switch Replacement Guide (2013-2019)
Having trouble starting your 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Sedan? It might be a faulty ignition switch.
- A no-crank, no-start condition where you hear no click is a classic sign of a bad ignition switch.
- The 'wiggle test' is a reliable way to confirm if the switch is worn out.
- Replacement is a simple, DIY-friendly job that requires basic tools and about 30 minutes.
- This part is the electrical switch, not the mechanical lock cylinder. No key reprogramming is needed.
Is Your Ignition Switch Failing? Common Symptoms
A bad ignition switch on the Police Interceptor Sedan can cause confusing problems that might seem like a dead battery or a bad starter. Watch for these specific signs:
🎬 Watch: A visual guide to common ignition switch failure symptoms- Car Won't Start or Crank: This is the most common symptom. You turn the key and get complete silence—no clicking, no cranking, nothing. This happens when the switch fails to send the electrical signal to the starter motor.
- Starts, Then Immediately Stalls: The engine fires up for a second while the key is in the 'START' position but dies as soon as you let the key return to the 'ON' position. This means the switch isn't maintaining power to the ignition or fuel systems.
- Stalling While Driving: This is a serious safety issue. A worn switch can lose electrical contact when you hit a bump or turn the wheel, causing the engine to shut off without warning.
- Flickering Lights and Dead Accessories: If your dashboard lights, gauges, or radio cut in and out, the ignition switch may be failing to provide consistent power.
- Key is Hard to Turn: While often a sign of a bad ignition lock cylinder (the mechanical part), binding or stiffness can also be related to the electrical switch connected to it.
Pro Tip: The Wiggle Test
If your car is running, leave it in park and gently wiggle the key in the ignition without turning it off. If wiggling the key causes the engine to sputter, the dashboard lights to flicker, or the engine to stall, you almost certainly have a worn-out ignition switch.
🎬 Watch: How to identify a failing switch before it diesChoosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Switch
For the 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Sedan, you don't need to go to the dealer for this part. Aftermarket options offer a good balance of quality and value. The key is choosing a reputable brand.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality: The original factory switch is a known failure point. Aftermarket brands often identify the original flaw and improve the design. Brands like Standard Motor Products are known for producing parts that meet or exceed original specifications, while Dorman is known for creating "OE Fix" parts that are re-engineered for durability. For this part, a quality aftermarket switch is a reliable and cost-effective choice.
Brand Tiers:
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Standard Ignition): Standard Motor Products (SMP) is a top-tier choice trusted by professional mechanics. They are known for high-quality materials and manufacturing, ensuring long-term reliability. If you want a part that you can install and forget about, this is a great option.
- Standard / DIY-Favorite (e.g., Dorman): Dorman is a very popular brand that offers good value. They are well-known for analyzing why factory parts fail and improving on the design. It's a solid, dependable choice for most owners.
- Economy Brands (e.g., Replacement, True Tech, VNE): These brands offer the lowest price point, making them a budget-friendly option. They are functional replacements but may not have the same level of engineering or long-term durability as premium brands.
No Recalls or TSBs Found
Our research found no official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Ford or the NHTSA specifically for ignition switch failure on the 2013-2019 Ford Police Interceptor Sedan. Recalls found were for the newer, Explorer-based *Utility* models and were unrelated to this part.
Cost Comparison
| Part Type | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $90 - $150 | Purchased from a Ford dealership. |
| New Aftermarket | $37 - $86 | Includes brands like Dorman, Standard Ignition, and others. Offers the best value. |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 | The job takes about 30-60 minutes. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the ignition switch myself?
Yes, this is a great DIY job for beginners. The switch is located on the steering column and is accessible by removing the lower plastic shroud. It's held in by clips and an electrical connector, requiring only basic tools and about 30-45 minutes of your time.
What tools do I need to replace the ignition switch?
You will typically only need a 5.5mm socket or nut driver to remove the three screws holding the steering column cover. A small flathead screwdriver can also be helpful for releasing the clips on the electrical connector and the switch itself.
Is the ignition switch the same as the ignition lock cylinder?
No, and this is a common point of confusion. The ignition lock cylinder is the mechanical part you put your key into. The ignition switch is the electrical component behind it that actually sends power. If your key is physically stuck or won't turn, the problem is likely the lock cylinder. If you have electrical issues like a no-start or stalling, the problem is likely the ignition switch.
My lights and radio work, but the car won't start. Is it the ignition switch?
It could be, but those symptoms also point to a weak battery or a bad starter. A battery can have enough power for accessories but not enough to crank the engine. However, if the starter makes no noise at all (not even a click), the ignition switch is a primary suspect 🎬 See this quick trick for diagnosing a no-crank Ford vehicle because its job is to send power to the starter in the first place.
Will I need to reprogram my keys after replacing the ignition switch?
No. Because you are only replacing the electrical switch and not the lock cylinder or the vehicle's computer, no key reprogramming is necessary. The car's anti-theft system (PATS) reads the chip in your key through a transceiver ring around the lock cylinder, which is not part of the switch. It's a simple plug-and-play replacement.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: SW6869 9L8Z11572C
This is the electrical switch only, not the lock cylinder assembly. It is a direct-fit, plug-and-play component.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Police Interceptor Sedan: