Warning Signs That Your Vehicle Needs Ignition Repair
A jammed ignition switch can be a real hassle. It can make you homeless and unable to operate your vehicle.
Lubricating your ignition will stop it from getting stuck. This will help to release any minor damage caused to the lock-wafers and help you get your vehicle back on the road.
Signs and symptoms
The ignition switch is located on the steering wheel or dash and supplies voltage to the electrical systems of your vehicle. It also turns on the starter. The switch could become defective over time due to environmental influences and normal wear and tear. It is crucial to be aware of warning signs that be a sign of a failing switch, and bring your vehicle in to be repaired before it becomes a serious problem.
The first sign is you are having difficulty getting your car started. If you struggle to turn your key or it refuses to get into the ignition cylinder, this is usually due to excessive wear and tear on the internal cylinder or damage to the ignition switch. Use a lighter keychain to decrease stress on the ignition switch. Avoid pulling or jiggling the key, and try not to turn it too fast.
Other electrical issues that could indicate a failing ignition switch could be issues with your radio or other devices when you turn the ignition key, such as flickering lights, and intermittently shutting off. This is most likely caused by an electrical overload in your ignition switch. It's a sign you need to have it checked by a professional.
If your car's power steering or power seats do not function when you turn the key, this could be an indication of an issue with the ignition switch. This could be due to the internal contacts not being able to supply the required power, or an absence of current that prevents the switches from functioning. It could be that the ignition switch is dirty or contaminated. It can be fixed by spraying it with WD-40 which is a specific cleaning agent.
A malfunctioning ignition can also cause the motor to continue running even after the key has been removed from the cylinder. This is a serious issue and needs to be rectified as soon as is possible. This issue may be more difficult for you to diagnose if your vehicle has remote starter system. You may need to remove the steering wheel in order to get to the ignition cylinder. Utilizing a special tool to remove the steering wheel will help you to safely remove the battery and then unlock the ignition cylinder.
Causes
The ignition switch wears out over time. However, poor use or neglect can speed up this process. Repairs or replacements of the ignition switch might be required based on the reason.
The ignition key is sticky or difficult to turn
A key that is hard to turn may be an indication of a failed ignition switch. This symptom usually occurs due to the accumulation of dirt or moisture inside the ignition housing, which can lead to misalignment of internal parts.
Conducting a regular inspection of the ignition switch can help to prevent this issue from happening. If you notice any issues it is important to have them taken care of immediately to avoid the issue from becoming worse.
Electrical Issues
A faulty ignition can also cause other electrical problems in the vehicle such as the dashboard lights not responding or any other accessories. The ignition switch is responsible for directing the power to these parts and systems.
Stalling while driving
A malfunctioning ignition switch can occasionally cause the engine to stop when driving. This could be dangerous, especially when driving at high speeds or in traffic.
Ignition lock cylinder issues
An ignition lock cylinder is a part that holds the key and reads the anti-theft code to allow the vehicle to start. This mechanical part can be worn down over time, but it could also be damaged by a bad key or by physical damage to the steering column or the ignition switch.
Spark Plugs and Wires
Spark wires and plugs are essential to start the engine. They must be in good working order to ensure that the engine is started when you turn the ignition. Worn spark plugs and wires could result in a hard to start vehicle however, they could also cause your ignition system to fail completely.
All things wear out with time, but routine maintenance and careful use can prolong the life expectancy of an ignition switch as well as other vehicle components. In the event of a problem, failing to fix it with your ignition switch could put you and your family members at risk of serious injury or even death. To avoid a potentially deadly situation, take safety precautions to disable the battery and disconnect the wire from the ignition switch before doing any work on it.
Repair Options
Many people find their car locked in a position because the ignition switch won't turn. It's crucial to understand that this issue can be resolved if you're willing to invest in the right tools. You can either repair the ignition switch or replace it completely. You have the option of choosing however you'll need to weigh up the cost.
car ignition switch repair can be caused by a range of factors, like worn springs or faulty contact points. The switch can also be affected by temperatures and electrical issues. In these instances replacing the ignition switch might be the best option. It is also important to be cautious about forcing the key into or out of the lock as this could cause additional damage to the ignition system.
It is important to seek professional help when you are repairing an ignition. There are many steps involved. The first step in most cases is to remove your battery. Once the battery is disconnected, you can remove the plastic covers that protect the ignition switch and ignition cylinder. When you remove the plastic covers, you must to use a correct removal tool. Once the plastic covers have been removed it is now possible to access the ignition switch and replace it.
The ignition cylinder can also be damaged if the ignition switch fails. This is a frequent issue in older vehicles. A locksmith or dealer can fix or replace the cylinder. The cylinder may also be damaged due to extreme wear and tear or an accident.
It is vital to know that in the event that the ignition switch is not working properly, the key will likely be bent or broken. In this scenario, you may need a new master-key so that your ignition system recognizes the key.
In certain situations the best solution is to replace the ignition switch or the lock cylinder. A replacement will be able to solve all the issues that are preventing the ignition system from beginning the engine. This is a cost-effective solution than repairing the ignition system.
Cost
Ignition coils play a crucial role in the ignition system of your vehicle and their failure could have serious consequences. A malfunctioning ignition coil could cause the engine to not start or turn over, regardless of whether it's due to corrosion or wear and tear. If this happens the mechanic will have to replace the ignition coil, which can cost anywhere from $150 to $350.
The mechanic can perform this task several ways, and the cost will depend on the car's model and make as well as its age. Generally speaking, replacing an ignition switch is the least expensive alternative, while replacing a lock's cylinder and key may be more expensive.
It generally takes a professional mobile mechanic about an hour to repair an ignition switch. This repair requires removing the steering wheel, disconnecting the battery, and then removing any trim pieces covering the ignition switch to get to it. For older vehicles, this may also require the use of a steering wheel puller or a locking pin remover both of which are available for rent from the majority of auto parts stores. Once the old ignition switch is removed, the new one will be installed and the electrical connector is connected. The new ignition key cylinder is then to be installed and the locking tab secured to the cylinder. Finally, any trim panels that were removed will be reinstalled.
On the other hand, replacing a lock key and cylinder could take as long as two hours. The job is more involved than just removing and replacing the switch. It may also require the replacement of the ignition control module, car battery or starter motor. The total cost for the components could be as high as $1000. It may also require a new key cylinder, and it's best to get an original key made by a locksmith instead of having a duplicate created by the dealer.
It is worth the extra cost of a good mechanic to do this type of work, since DIY repairs can come with hidden costs. A reliable mechanic will be able to avoid these issues, saving you money and time in the long in the long.