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Common Causes of Faulty Ignition Switches Ignition switches provide the initial power to your car's accessory and engine. They also determine if the vehicle's keys are in the accessory, off or on position. Keep spare keys, keepsakes, and other items on a chain apart from the car key to avoid issues with the ignition switch. This will help reduce the stress on the cylinder of your car's key. How the Ignition Switch Works The ignition switch is at the center of your car. The ignition switch is the first component you touch to start your vehicle So you don't want it to be damaged. This is why it is crucial to get your ignition switch replaced or repaired when you notice any signs of trouble, like problems starting or a pulsing sound. The ignition switch's primary function is to provide power to other systems of your vehicle, including the radio, accessories, and windows. The ignition switch is also responsible for activating the starter motor and engine when the key is turned to the 'on' position. In order for the ignition system to work it must have a spark that can ignite the air and fuel inside the engine of your vehicle to begin. The spark is generated by the ignition coil which creates an electrical field around the rotor as current passes through it. The magnetic field is created when the rotor spins. This generates the ignition spark. This spark can then turn the pistons inside your engine, igniting them up and getting the engine started. The ignition switch controls the electrical current running through your primary and secondary circuits. When the switch is in the “on” position the battery transmits low voltage current to the primary windings as well as the breaker points of your ignition coil. This creates a magnet field that can ignite spark plugs and turn the rotor. When the ignition switch is set to “start” the primary and secondary circuits are closed. When the distributor and rotor cap terminals rotate, the electrical connection between them is broken, which stops the secondary flow and then completes the primary circuit. The breaker points are able to close, causing a spark at the spark plug, which will then ignite the engine in just a few seconds. Make sure to keep in mind that the ignition switch can be a delicate device that shouldn't undergo too much force when it is turned. If you use too much pressure, the switch can break and you'll require a professional to remove it for repair. Common Ignition switch issues The ignition switch gives you the initial access to vehicular power, so it's essential to keep it in good working order. A malfunctioning switch can cause numerous car issues that make it difficult to drive your vehicle or use your favorite accessories. Knowing the most frequent causes of ignition failure is a crucial first step towards finding and fixing your car's problems. If you are having trouble turning the key, it could be a sign that the ignition switch isn't working. Most of the time, this means you need to jiggle or try multiple times to get the key to turn. This is due to internal wear and tears or other damages to the ignition switch. Heavy Keychains Carrying a heavy keychain that contains a multitude of keys, key fobs and other accessories can put an extra strain on the ignition switch when you insert the key. This can cause the ignition switch to overheat, speeding up its internal wear and degradation. Extreme temperaturesHarsh climates may negatively impact the lubricants and materials in the ignition switch. This can speed up its degradation over time. Environmental contaminants and moisture may affect the switches internal components. This could lead to poor connectivity. Manufacturing Defects Certain ignition switches suffer from defects or flaws in their design, which can result in premature wear and damage. This can occur due to poor quality components, faulty assembly or other causes. One customer brought their car into our shop after their radio and dashboard light did not work. We discovered that the ignition switch had no longer provided power to the accessories. Since the ignition switch is only supposed to supply power to the crank and accessory positions when it's activated this could indicate that there is a problem with the switch. Another issue with the ignition switch is when the key becomes stuck inside it. This is typically an indication that the ignition switch has damaged or worn out and it will need to be replaced. A professional locksmith can help remove the key from the ignition switch using tools such as hacksaw blades or a piler. Ignition Switch Replacement The ignition switch sends signals that activate a variety of critical vehicle systems. It can cause your car to not start and affect other electrical components. It is essential to get it replaced as soon as you spot any signs of trouble, such as the key becoming difficult to turn or not turning at all. It is possible to replace the switch yourself, however you must be careful. It is essential to employ an expert to do this delicate task. You don't want to end up stuck in traffic or cause an accident. If your switch is malfunctioning it's probably due to an aging contact point or a bad connection. Heavy keys or a long keyring could also wear out the cylinder and switch and cause it to separate from the cylinder. You'll notice that turning the key requires more force and sometimes nothing happens. This is a sign that it's time to replace it However, the majority of people ignore it and continue to jiggle the key to start their cars. Based on the vehicle's make and model, replacing the ignition switch can be straightforward or complicated. In the majority of instances the technician will take off the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the ignition switch from the cylinder. They'll then remove the old switch and replace it in. After that ignition lock cylinder repair cost will re-connect the electrical connections and test the switch to ensure it's functioning correctly. Some vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system that requires a special key to start them and the switch needs to be programmed to accept a new key when the switch is replaced. It's important to note that this isn't applicable to all vehicles, as older models can be operated with an ordinary key in the event that the ignition switch isn't functioning. However, most modern vehicles require a key that is 'chipped' to start them. Therefore, the switch needs to be replaced when the key does too. Ignition Switch Repair The ignition switch is responsible for turning off and on the electrical power supply to the starter as well as the powertrain components and accessories in your vehicle. Since it is the direct line of communication for sending power to these components in the event that the ignition switch fails, it could cause your car to lose power in a variety places. This is the reason you must pay close attention to the signs that your ignition switch is in need of repair or replacement. One of the first indications that the ignition switch is not working is when you have trouble turning your key in the ignition. If you're struggling to turn the key, it is a sign that the wafers within the ignition switch have worn out. This could be due to frequent use or environmental factors like dirt, dust, and corrosion. Another problem that can be encountered is when your engine fails to start while you drive. This is usually caused by the ignition switch not being capable of providing the engine with enough power and this can be a hassle and potentially dangerous for drivers. It is recommended to visit your local auto repair shop as soon you spot any issues with your ignition switch or locking cylinder. The relays for the accessory may not be working also This is a further indication that the ignition switch has failed. You might also notice that the dashboard lights flickering. If you suspect that your ignition switch is damaged the first step is to remove the trim around the steering wheel and dash. This will give you access to the ignition switch, which is located on a round piece of equipment at the top of the steering column, or in the center console. You'll have to remove the screws that secure the module, and then loosen the wire connectors with an instrument such as a screwdriver. You can then take out the old ignition and replace it with a brand new one. Before reassembling the vehicle, test the ignition switch by turning the key to the ON and then START positions. Reconnect the battery and make sure that all the components are functioning.