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Common Causes of Faulty Ignition Switches Ignition switches are the first source of power to your car's accessory and engine. They also determine if the key in your car is in the on, accessory, or off position. Keep any extra keys, keepsakes and other items on a chain apart from the car keys to avoid ignition switch issues. This will help reduce the mechanical stress on the key cylinder. How the Ignition Switch Works The ignition switch is located at the heart of your vehicle. The ignition switch is the first thing you press to start your car, so you don't want it to be defective. This is why it's essential to have your ignition switch repaired or replaced as soon as you notice any signs of trouble, like difficulty starting or a pulsing sound. The basic function of the ignition switch is to provide the initial power to the other systems of your vehicle, including radio, accessories, and windows. The ignition switch also turns on the engine and starter motor when the key is in the “on” position. The ignition system must work because it requires a spark to ignite the air and fuel inside your car for it to start. The ignition coil produces the spark by creating a magnetic field that surrounds the rotor as current passes through. The magnetic field is created as the rotor spins. This causes the ignition spark. This spark could turn 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 set to the 'on' position, the battery sends low voltage current through the primary coil's windings and then through the breaker points. This creates a magnetic field that can ignite the spark plugs, and spin 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 connection between them breaks and stops the secondary flow and closes the primary circuit. The breaker points are able to close and produce sparks at the spark plug which will then ignite the engine in just a few seconds. Be aware that the ignition switch could be a delicate machine that shouldn't undergo too much force when it is turned. If you use too much pressure, the switch can break, and you will require a professional to remove it to repair. Common Ignition Switch Problems The ignition switch provides the first access to vehicle power, therefore it's crucial to maintain it in good working order. A failing switch can cause many car malfunctions that make it difficult to drive or use your favorite gadgets. Understanding the most common causes of ignition failure is the first step to identifying and fixing your vehicle's problems. If you're having difficulty turning the key, it could be an indication that the ignition switch isn't working. In most cases, this means that you need to jiggle or jiggle it several times to get the key to turn. This is a result of the wear and tear on the internal circuit or other damages to the ignition switch, which can be caused by many factors. Heavy Keychains When you insert the ignition key, a large keychain with a number of keys, key fobs, and other accessories may put extra stress on the switch. This could cause the ignition switch to overheat, speeding up its internal wear and degradation. Extreme temperatures and harsh climates can adversely affect the materials and lubricants inside the ignition switch. This can accelerate its degrading process over time. The environmental contaminants and moisture may affect the switches' internal components, leading to poor connectivity. Manufacturing Defects Certain ignition switches be prone to flaws or defects in their design, resulting in premature wear and damage. This could be due to inadequate materials, poor assembly or other factors. A customer brought their vehicle to our shop because the dashboard and radio lights had stopped working. We discovered that the ignition switch was not supplying 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 indicates that there is a problem with the switch. The key may also cause problems for the ignition switch if it gets stuck in there. This is a sign of a worn-out or damaged ignition switch that needs to be replaced. A professional locksmith will be able to remove the key from the ignition switch using tools such as a hacksaw blade or piler. Ignition Switch Replacement The ignition switch sends signals that trigger a variety of vital automotive systems. It can cause your vehicle to stop starting and impact other electrical components. It is crucial to get it replaced when you spot any signs of trouble, for example, the key not being able to turn or not turning at all. You can replace the switch yourself, but be cautious. You'll be dealing with a delicate piece of machinery and it's advisable to have professionals handle this task so you don't end up stuck in traffic or cause an accident that is catastrophic. If your switch is not working, it's likely because of an aging contact point or a bad connection. A long or heavy keyring could also wear out the switch and cylinder eventually causing it to break off from the cylinder. If the ignition switch is malfunctioning you'll notice it requires more force to turn the key, and, often, nothing happens when you do. ignition lock repair is a sign that it's time to replace the switch, but most people ignore it and keep trying to turn the ignition switch to start their cars. Based on the vehicle's model and make, replacing the ignition could be easy or complicated. In most cases, the technician will remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the ignition switch from the cylinder. They'll then take the old switch out and replace it in. Before finishing up the mechanic will connect the electrical connections and then test the switch to make sure it's functioning correctly. Certain vehicles have an anti-theft system that requires a specific key to activate it 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 the case for all vehicles, as older models can be started using any key that works, even if the ignition switch isn't working. However, most modern vehicles require a 'chipped' key in order to start them, and the switch will need replacing when the key does too. Repairing the ignition switch The ignition switch is responsible for turning on and off the electrical power for the starter and other components of the powertrain in your vehicle. Since it is the direct connection for transferring electricity to these parts If the ignition switch malfunctions, it can cause your car to lose power in a variety places. It is therefore important to pay attention to any signs that suggest that your ignition switch might need repair or replacement. One of the first signs that the ignition switch is not working is when you begin having difficulties turning your key in the ignition. If you are having trouble turning the key, the wafers within the ignition switch might be worn out. This could be due to the use of the switch over time or environmental factors like dust, dirt, and corrosion. Another issue that is common is when your engine stops while you are driving. It is usually due to the ignition switch not being able to supply the engine with enough power, which can be frustrating and dangerous for drivers. It is recommended to visit your local auto repair shop as soon as you spot any issues with your ignition switch or locking cylinder. Other symptoms that the ignition switch is going bad include relays for the accessory that aren't working this is a sign that the switch can't send electricity to them. You may also notice that the dashboard lights are flickering. If you suspect that the ignition switch is defective the first step is to take off the trim around the steering wheel and dash. You will now be able to access the ignition switch that is located on a circular panel that is located at the top or center of the steering wheel. You'll need to remove the screws that keep the module in place and then loosen the wire connectors using a screwdriver or other tool. Then, you can remove the old ignition and replace it with a new one. Before reassembling the vehicle, test the ignition switch by turning the key to the ON and START positions. You should also re-connect the battery and check whether your devices are functioning.