Help, Hot ignition switch on my 960

(My first post here) Hi Everyone, I have an issue with my 1996 960,when the car is on, the ignition switch and key heat up. This started happening a couple of days ago and it gets so hot that we can't pull the key out of the ignition without a rag. Has anyone heard of this? As for the rest of the car, there seems to be no other symptoms of anything going on....it runs fine and has been well maintained (83K on it). Thanks dave (dalex)

I would think either the connector on the back of the switch may not be making contact properly, or the contacts inside the switch are arcing. Suggest (in this order): 1. Check connector for signs of burning/melting (it may be that a contact inside the connector is not tight enough to make proper contact) 2. Change the switch.

hot ignition switch 

Hi, Sounds like a poor connection in one of the contacts in the switch or something is pulling a very high current. the ignition switch controls a relay that in turn feeds a lot of things such as lights, windows, indicators and a few other things as well. if then switch is getting as hot as you say i would have it checked by an auto electrician very soon before serious damage is caused to the ignition switch and local wiring. Cheers minstrel

Looks like the problem may be solved... 

I'm not entirely sure which part of the assembly sticks. You could try some WD40 (or a US equivalent) or a switch cleaning lubricant. Spray both down the ignition barrel and the rear of the switch. I've just learned to turn the key back a fraction every time!! (lazy) You could try changing the switch itself (if it separates from the barrel), and if there's no improvement, change the barrel.

hot ign. switch 

I may be dreaming, but I seem to remember reading that if the headlamp wiper blades become stuck/jammed behind their stops, it can cause heating up of the ignition switch. All the best - Dave.