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Common Causes of Faulty Ignition Switches The ignition switch is the first source of power for your car's engine and other accessories. They also determine whether the key in your car is in the on, accessory, or off position. To avoid problems with your ignition switch Keep spare keys and other items on an additional chain separate from the car's key. This will help reduce the stress on your key cylinder. How the Ignition Switch works The ignition switch is located at the heart of your vehicle. It is the first thing you do when you are getting ready to start your car and the last thing you want to malfunction. It is therefore important to get the ignition switch repaired or replaced immediately if there are any indications of trouble. The primary function of the ignition switch is to supply the power to other systems in your vehicle, including the radio as well as accessories and windows. The ignition switch is also responsible for turning on the starter motor and engine when the key is turned to the 'on position. The ignition system needs to function because it needs a spark to ignite the air and fuel in your car to begin. The spark is produced by the ignition coil which creates a magnetic field around the rotor when the current moves through it. When the rotor spins the magnetic field grows, and then the ignition spark is released. This spark could change the pistons of your engine, sparking them and starting it. The ignition switch regulates the current of electricity flowing through your secondary and primary 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 magnetic 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. As the rotor and distributor cap terminals rotate, the electrical contact between them break and the secondary flow and completes the primary circuit. This allows the breaker points to close, causing a spark at the spark plug, which will then ignite the engine in a matter of seconds. It is essential to keep in mind that the ignition switch is a delicate piece machinery and should not be put under any excessive force when inserting it or turning it. If you exert too much force, the switch can fail and you'll require a professional to remove it for repairs. Common Ignition switch issues It is essential to keep the ignition switch in good condition as it provides initial access to vehicle power. A failing switch can cause many problems with your vehicle and make it difficult to drive or use your favorite gadgets. Understanding the most common causes of malfunctioning ignition switches is an important first step to identifying and addressing your vehicle's issues. An obvious indication of a problem with your ignition switch is if you are having difficulty turning the key to start your vehicle. This can mean that you have to move the key or turn it many times. This is because of the wear and tear inside or other issues with the ignition switch, which can be caused by a variety of factors. Heavy Keychains When you insert the ignition key, a large keychain containing many keys, key fobs, and other accessories could put additional strain on the switch. This can cause the ignition switch to overheat, which can accelerate its internal wear and degradation. Extreme TemperaturesHarsh climates can negatively affect the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch, which can accelerate its degrading process over time. The environmental contaminants and moisture can also affect the switches' internal components. This can lead to poor connectivity. Manufacturing Defects Certain ignition switches have flaws or defects in their design, which can result in premature wear and damage. This can occur due to subpar materials, assembly errors, or other factors. A customer once brought their vehicle to our shop due to the fact that the radio and dashboard lights stopped functioning. We discovered that the ignition switch had no longer supplied power to the accessories. Since does a new ignition switch require a new key is supposed to provide power to the crank and accessory positions when it's activated this could indicate an issue with the switch. The key could also cause problems with the ignition switch if it is stuck in there. This is usually a sign that the ignition switch has damaged or worn out, and will need to be replaced. A professional locksmith will use tools like a hacksaw blade or piler to remove the key from the ignition. Ignition Switch Replacement The ignition switch sends signals that trigger a variety of important automotive systems. It can cause your vehicle to not start and affect other electrical components. It is recommended to replace it as soon as you can when you observe any indications that the key is not working properly. You could replace the switch yourself, but be careful. It is important to engage 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 likely because of an aging contact point or a bad connection. A long keyring or heavy keys can wear down the cylinder, which causes the switch to become disconnected from the cylinder. You'll notice that turning the key requires more force, and sometimes, nothing occurs. This is a sign it's time to replace it, but most people ignore it and keep trying to jiggle the ignition switch to start their cars. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, changing the ignition switch could be easy or complicated. In the majority of instances, a technician will take off the cover for the steering column and disconnect the switch from the cylinder. The technician will then detach the switch from the previous one and replace it with a new one. Before finishing up, the mechanic will reconnect the electrical connections and then test the switch to make sure it's functioning properly. Certain vehicles have an anti-theft feature that requires keys to turn the car on. The switch will require reprogramming to accept the new key when it's replaced. This isn't the case with all cars, since older models can still be started with an ordinary key if the ignition switch malfunctions. Most modern cars require a “chipped key” to start them. The switch will need to be replaced if the key fails to work. Ignition Switch Repair The ignition switch is responsible to turn off and on the electrical power to the starter and other components of the powertrain in your vehicle. Since it is the main connection for transferring power to these components, if the ignition switch fails, it can cause your vehicle to lose power in a variety of locations. This is why you should be attentive to signs that the ignition switch requires repair or replacement. One of the first signs that the ignition switch is not working is when you start having difficulties turning your key in the ignition. If you find yourself struggling to turn the key, it's a sign that the wafers within the ignition switch are wearing out. This could be due to wear and tear or environmental factors such as dust, dirt, or corrosion. A common problem is the engine stalling while driving. 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 even dangerous for drivers. You should visit your local auto repair shop as soon you discover any issues with your ignition switch or locking cylinder. Other symptoms that the ignition switch is going bad include the relays that connect to the accessory not working that is an indication that the switch isn't able to send power to them. You may also notice that the dashboard lights are blinking. If you suspect that your ignition switch might be defective take off the trim around the dash and steering wheel. This will let you gain access to the ignition switch which is mounted on a round module at the top of the steering column, or in the center console. The screws that secure the module need to be removed, and the wire connectors need to be loosened with a screwdriver. Then, you can remove the old ignition switch and replace it with a brand new one. Make sure to test it prior to rebuilding everything and make sure that the switch is turned into the ON position and then to the START position. Re-connect the battery, and make sure that all components are working.