97 Ranger running without key in it?

May 18, 2006 Last reply: 20 years ago 2 Replies

I just purchased a 1997 Ford Ranger and I just found out about a quirky electrical thing. If I turn the headlight switch to the left, one click past off, I can turn the key off and remove it and keep the engine running. The radio and lights all go off, and the steering wheel locks, but the engine stays on. The only explanation that I can think of is I know the the truck was originally sold as a fleet vehicle and maybe this is a feature designed to secure the truck while making deliveries while not having to constantly stop the engine.



If anybody has any ideas, please let me know. I have been searching online for an answer and haven't gotten anywhere!


There's a click past off on the headlight switch?

I know that some of the column locks get sloppy and that you can run them without the key. My dad's 1995 F-150 started doing that at about 90K. If you left it just right, you could shut it off and restart it without the key.

But the thing with the headlight switch is a new one to me.

CJB

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required