If your vehicle is showing dashboard lights flicker or go out when wiggling the key, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.
The electrical contacts inside the ignition switch wear out or burn over time. Wiggling the key physically shifts these worn contacts, causing a momentary loss of electrical power to the dashboard and potentially the engine.
The mechanical lock cylinder where the key is inserted can develop excessive internal play, often accelerated by heavy keychains. This looseness prevents the cylinder from holding the ignition switch firmly in the 'On' position.
The wiring harness that plugs into the ignition switch can become loose or damaged. This is often caused by recent repairs inside the steering column or repeated stress from adjusting a tilt steering wheel.