If the key has to be held to keep the car running then the ignition switch is most likely going bad. On some models the switch can be easily replaced. On others the switch removal can be a large task.
==Answer 1 == Sounds like the ignition switch is defective.
Bad ignition switch?
When the key is in the "start" position all accesssories are designed to be "locked out" to concentrate all the available power to the starting circuit. How about the "on" position - do accessories have power at that position? - if not could be a bad ignition switch
Get in car, close both doors. Stick key in and pull it out three times. Third time leave key in hold down the passenger side door lock down in the lock position. Turn key forwards and backwards not starting it and then take the key out. You should be done.
you simply get in car with door shut, turn key to "dash lights on position", hold odometer reset button in, then turn key to full ON position"headlights on" and hold for 3-5 seconds. light should be flashing. turn off then start car--done.
Have you tried changing the ignition switch?
turn the key from the off position to the on position without starting the car 3 times, finishing with the key in the on position but without the engine running. this enables the check engine light to display any engine fault codes.
Try turning key to 1st (unlock) position without starting vehicle, then shift to neutral
Place the key into the ignition. Turn the key to the auxiliary position, without starting the engine. Keep the key in the auxiliary position for 30 seconds. This should reset your antitheft system.
To disable a 2002 Hyundai Elantra alarm system, put the key in the ignition. Turn the key halfway ensuring the car does not start. Leave the key in this position for 10 minutes before starting the car.
There should be a button that says erase. Hold it down for a second and it should clear them. Have the key in the on position with the car NOT running.
# With the car started (ignition on), set the LCD odometer readout to total mileage (not trip A or B). # Turn the car off (ignition key to the OFF position). # Push in AND HOLD the button/knob that switches the odometer # Turn key to ON position without starting the car. You will notice the maintenance light blink and go out. # Release the odometer button/knob. # Turn key to OFF position. # That's it! The "MAINT REQD" light has been reset to warn you to change your oil in another 5,000 or 7,500 miles or so.