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Common Causes of Faulty Ignition Switches The ignition switch is the primary source of power for your vehicle's engine and its accessories. They also determine if your vehicle's keys are in the accessory on or off position. To avoid problems with your ignition switch Keep spare keys and other keepsakes on a separate chain from the car's key. This will help reduce the stress on your car's key cylinder. How the Ignition Switch works The ignition switch is located at the center of your car. It's the first thing you touch when getting ready to start your car, and the last thing you want to be damaged. Therefore, it is essential to have the ignition switch repaired or changed as soon as there are any indications of trouble. The primary function of the ignition switch is to provide power to other systems of your vehicle, including the radio as well as accessories and windows. The ignition switch is also responsible for activating the engine and starter motor when the key is turned to the 'on position. To allow the ignition system to function, there must be a spark that can ignite the air and fuel in your car's engine to start. The ignition coil generates the spark by creating an electric field that surrounds the rotor as the current flows through. The magnetic field is created when the rotor rotates. This creates the ignition spark. This spark can then turn the pistons inside your engine, igniting them up and getting it started. The ignition switch controls the electrical current running through your secondary and primary circuits. When the switch is in the 'on' position, the battery will send low voltage current through the primary windings of your ignition coil and then through the breakers. This creates a magnetic field that can ignite 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 contact between them is broken and the secondary flow and then completes the primary circuit. The breaker points are able to close and create sparks at the spark plug which then ignites the engine in just a few seconds. It is essential to keep in mind that the ignition switch is a delicate piece of machinery that must not be subjected any force that is too strong when inserting it or turning it. If you use too much force, the switch can break and you'll need an expert to take it off to make repairs. Common Ignition switch problems The ignition switch gives you the initial access to vehicular power, therefore it's crucial to ensure it's in good working order. does a new ignition switch require a new key can lead to numerous problems with your vehicle and make it difficult to drive or use your preferred accessories. Understanding the common causes of malfunctioning ignition switches is a crucial first step to diagnosing and fixing your car's problems. The most obvious sign of a problem with the ignition switch is when you have difficulty turning the key to start your car. Most of the time, this means you have to jiggle or attempt several times to get the key to turn. This is due to 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 that contains a variety of keys, key fobs and other accessories could put additional pressure on the switch. This can cause the switch to overheat and accelerate internal wear and degradation. Extreme temperatures and harsh climates can negatively impact the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch, speeding up its degrading process over time. Environmental contaminants and moisture can also affect the switches internal components, leading to poor connectivity. Manufacturing Defects Certain ignition switches can be prone to flaws or defects in their design, which can result in premature wear and damage. This could be due inadequate materials, poor assembly or other causes. A customer once brought their vehicle to our shop because the radio and dashboard lights stopped working. We found that the ignition switch 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 be a sign of a problem with the switch. The key could also cause problems for the ignition switch if it is stuck inside. This is an indication of a worn-out or broken ignition switch, which will need to replaced. A professional locksmith can help extract the key from the ignition switch using tools such as a hacksaw blade or piler. Ignition Switch Replacement The ignition switch transmits signals that trigger a variety of important automotive systems. It can cause your car to not start or affect other electrical components. You should replace it as soon as possible when you observe any indications that the key isn't working properly. It is possible to replace the switch yourself, but you should be cautious. You'll be dealing with a delicate piece of machinery and it's recommended to let an expert handle the task so that you don't end up stranded in traffic or cause serious injury. If your switch is malfunctioning it's probably due to the contact point being worn or a weak connection. A long keyring or a heavy set of keys can cause wear on the cylinder, which causes the switch to disconnect from the cylinder. You'll notice that turning the key requires more force, and at times, nothing occurs. This is a sign it's time to replace the ignition switch, but many people ignore it. They continue to try to turn their keys to start their vehicle. Based on the vehicle's model and make, replacing the ignition switch can be straightforward or complicated. In the majority of instances, a technician must remove the cover of the steering column and disconnect the switch from the cylinder. They'll then remove the old switch and replace it in. The mechanic will then test the switch and reconnect the electrical connections before closing. Certain vehicles have an anti-theft system that requires a special key to turn it on, so the switch must be programmed to accept a new key after the switch is replaced. It's worth noting that this isn't the case for all vehicles, as older models can be operated with an ordinary key in the event that the ignition switch isn't functioning. However, modern cars require a 'chipped' key in order to start them, so the switch will need replacing 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, accessories and powertrain components in your vehicle. The ignition switch is the main connection that sends power to all these parts. If it fails, your car may lose power in a variety of locations. This is why you should be attentive to indications that your ignition switch needs repair or replacement. One of the first signs that your ignition switch is malfunctioning is when you begin having difficulties turning your key in the ignition. If you find yourself struggling to turn the ignition, it's an indication that the wafers within the ignition switch have worn out. This can occur due to the use of the switch over time or environmental factors such as dirt, dust, and corrosion. Another common problem is when your engine stops while you drive. This is usually caused by the ignition switch not being in a position to supply the engine with sufficient 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 problems with your ignition switch or the locking cylinder. The accessory relays aren't working also this is a sign that the ignition switch has failed. You might also notice that the dashboard lights are blinking. If you believe that your ignition switch is bad the first step is to take off the trim around the steering wheel and dash. You can now access the ignition switch that is located on a circular panel that is located at the top or in the center of the steering wheel. You'll have to remove the screws that keep the module in place and then loosen the wire connectors by using an instrument such as a screwdriver. Then, you can remove the old ignition and replace it with a brand new one. Be sure to test it before building it up again by ensuring that the switch can be turned to the ON position and then back to the START position. Re-connect the battery, and ensure that all the components are functioning.