Car Ignition Switch Replacement: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

Importance of Ignition Switch Replacement Articles are a great way for businesses and their customers to get in touch. They're a powerful marketing tool which can help you generate leads, increase brand awareness and drive traffic to your website. A defective ignition switch could cause the car to not start and may even shut off your vehicle while driving. This could be hazardous for you and other drivers. Cost The ignition switch is an entrance point through which electrical power of your car flows. If it doesn't work, you will have difficulty getting your car started. This is a common issue that can affect any car, but it tends to be more prevalent in older models. A bad ignition switch can occur for a variety of reasons. It may have deteriorated or damaged in collision. You'll notice that your vehicle's electrical components are affected in the event of a worn-out or damaged ignition switch. These problems can include a dimming or flickering dashboard to a failing generator, but they can also be caused by the inability to start your vehicle. A defective ignition can cause the battery to run out of charge. If you have an anti theft system in your vehicle, the lock cylinder must be replaced with the switch. In some cases, the anti-theft system may require recoding, which could add up to $100 to the total cost of the job. The replacement of an ignition switch usually takes under an hour for an experienced mechanic, however the cost will vary based on whether you opt for an inexpensive aftermarket option or purchase OEM parts at a dealer. You can also purchase DIY kits that allow you to install the switch yourself. But, you'll require specialized tools and experience. ignition lock repair services include a step-bystep guide and include the necessary parts. If you have a modern car the ignition switch is connected to an electronic module that triggers the majority of your electrical systems. You shouldn't attempt to force a defective switch to function, since you could damage your vehicle. It will require specialized tools to replace the ignition, without removing your cylinder. This could render your car unusable. In older vehicles there is a rod of steel that runs from the ignition switch to the key cylinder. To turn the switch on, you will need to use a screwdriver in order to push the pin. Some car owners have used paintbrush handles or even a kabob skewer, to push the pin, but be sure not to use anything that is too hard that it will break within the module. Symptoms The ignition switch, mounted on the steering wheel, is responsible for activating the majority of the electrical systems in your vehicle. This includes dashboard lights, radio, and windows. It also is responsible for supplying power to the starter motor and engine when it is in the “start” position. Examine your ignition switch if there are any issues with these functions. A defective ignition can cause your car to experience several issues, including slowing down and power loss. One of the most frequent indications of a defective ignition switch is the fact that it is difficult to turn. If the switch is difficult to turn or requires jiggling, it's likely time to replace. In some cases, the switch can actually be stuck in the off or on position, which can hinder the vehicle from starting. Dashboard lights not working is another frequent sign. This could mean that there is a problem with the ignition switch, lock cylinder, or wiring. The flickering or irregular behavior of the dashboard lights could be an indication of an ignition switch issue as well. A variety of things can cause problems with the ignition switch, including normal wear and tear or accidents, as well as poor maintenance. The switch is subjected to repeated cycles that involve turning it on and off. This wears it down over time. It is also susceptible to corrosion and oxidation which could cause it to stop functioning properly. You can reduce the number of keys you have on your keychain, and remove any extra items. A heavy keychain will put extra strain on the cylinder and the ignition which can cause it to wear out faster. In addition, extreme temperature variations can affect the lubricants and materials that are used in the ignition switch and cylinder, causing it to be more susceptible to fail. In certain instances a malfunctioning ignition switch can cause the car to not start. This is the most severe indication and requires professional diagnosis. Repair If your car isn't starting, it could be caused by a malfunctioning ignition switch. A failing ignition switch may not be able to handle the full power devices such as the starter that is required to start your engine, causing it to stall out or stop working altogether. The switch could also be responsible for problems such as a dead battery or a malfunctioning ignition relay or electrical damage to other parts of the vehicle. If you suspect that your vehicle's ignition switch is defective it is recommended to contact an expert to fix or replace it as soon as you can to avoid further damage. An experienced mobile mechanic is able to replace an ignition switch in a car in less than an hour. However, many different components must be removed or modified to access the switch, which includes the cover of the steering column as well as the dash panel. This could increase the total repair time. In addition, the mechanic might have to take off the key cylinder to access the ignition switch. This can be a challenge to accomplish without the proper tools. Before you attempt a DIY ignition switch replacement check the owner's manual to find specific instructions. If you don't have an repair manual for your specific vehicle, you may want to hire a mechanic to finish the job for you. Certain vehicles have anti-theft and immobilizer systems that need to be reprogrammed once the new ignition switch has been installed. If you have a keychain with too many items on it, the extra weight can cause strain on the ignition cylinder and switch. Keeping the keys and other items on a separate keychain can help prevent this from happening. The ignition switch should be handled with care as it is a delicate part. Yanking, jiggling, and rough turning will only cause more damage. A good guideline is to keep the key in the “On” position for several seconds after inserting it to ensure that the switch has properly engaged and activated the starter motor. Doing this will also aid in preventing the car from stalling. A failing ignition switch can cause difficulties turning the key, intermittent dimming of the lights, loss of accessories or even the inability to start your vehicle. Replacement The ignition switch gives you the initial access to the vehicle's power. This component could cause your vehicle to not start and other electrical components, such as the radio or lights will stop working. In certain instances the ignition switch could even get stuck in the “on” position, meaning that you won't have the ability to shut your car down through the normal process. If you've experienced any of these signs you should consult an expert mechanic as soon as possible to determine and repair the problem. Ignition switches don't usually last as long as other components in your vehicle, so it's best to replace them immediately you spot a problem. You could end up stranded on the side of the highway in the event you don't repair it. It usually takes less than an hour for a technician to replace your ignition switch, although it can differ based depending on the specific model of your car. The procedure usually involves taking off the trim from the steering wheel, then disconnecting and unplugging your ignition lock. Then, the ignition lock cylinder is replaced, and a new switch installed. During the installation the mechanic will check the switch to confirm that it's working correctly. Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, they may also install new batteries and reconnect electrical connectors. In some instances, you may require a professional locksmith reprogram your engine's immobilizer. After the mechanic has installed the switch, they will reassemble the trim pieces and install the steering wheel. They'll also connect the battery and test the switch to ensure it's working properly. They'll then reconnect the wires and test for continuity to make sure all wires are connected correctly. Keep your ignition switch clean and free of debris and dirt to avoid it from crashing. Avoid driving in extreme temperatures or rain and make sure you ensure regular maintenance on the other components of your car. You can also purchase a high-quality replacement ignition switch to prolong its lifespan.