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The Importance of Ignition and Key Replacement The ignition switch is a straightforward but crucial component of your car's starting system. It transforms the power of your car's battery into a spark that ignites fuel and then starts your engine. As with any complicated system the ignition switch is prone to develop problems over time. car ignition switch is possible to jig it a little to get it functioning. In other cases, it may need to be replaced. What is an Ignition Switch? The ignition switch is one of the most vital components of your car. It lets you turn all of the electrical systems on to start your car. It's important however it is misunderstood. This can cause problems with your car. We want to help explain the fundamentals of the ignition switch, how it functions and what causes it to fail, and how you can keep it working properly. The ignition switch has three major options including accessory, off and on. In the off position, your key can be removed but nothing else will turn on. This will disable all the systems that don't require you to start your engine, including the dome lights and certain door locks. The accessory position (also known as ACC) lets you use some of your car's non-ignition-controlled systems, like the radio and power windows. To turn on your car, the ignition switch must connect to the circuit that provides power to the starter motor. The ignition switch must be able to unlock the cylinder that controls your ignition before it can do this. This is done electronically, by acknowledging the key cut. The locks and unlock functions within your ignition switch are handled by a tiny tumbler that must be matched to a specific cut on your key. The tumbler is a tiny piece of metal that has ramps on both sides. When you insert your keys, it pushes into the ramps and triggers the system. The ignition switch is a small component that is often under the radar until something goes wrong with it. Considering it's responsible for all the major systems that allow your car to run, it's incredibly important that you take care of it and have it replaced when you suspect it's failing. Luckily professional auto locksmiths can easily replace your ignition switch, restoring your vehicle's functionality to its fullest. How does an ignition switch work? If you've ever felt frustrated by a car that would not start, there's a good chance that the ignition switch could be to blame. An ignition switch is an electrical switch that completes the circuit that powers your engine. It's part of the key cylinder inside your car, or the ignition button on modern vehicles. It's a complex system that needs to function correctly for your vehicle to start and function properly. There are four different positions your ignition switch could be in: off, accessory, on, and start. The off position stops the power from reaching systems such as your radio or HVAC controls. The accessory position is for systems that do not require a significant amount of power, like dashboard lights or the fuel pump prime. The on position powers the starter and the start position occurs when you turn your engine on to start it. In your ignition switch, there are contacts that shut when the position changes. The contacts don't have a current that is high through them, but they operate relays to make the functions work. This means they are vulnerable to a lot of wear and tear over time. They can also fail due to heat, age or even heavy key chains. The ignition switch also features a lock mechanism that is mechanical to ensure your vehicle's security when it is in a parking. It's a security feature designed to protect your vehicle from being stolen however, it could be hampered by faulty internal components. If your ignition switch isn't functioning properly, you might notice that it takes longer than usual to start your car or that the engine won't crank at all. All of these signs indicate that your ignition needs to be replaced. This is a vital component of your car that you depend on to get you to where you'd like to get to. It is best to consult an expert to identify the issue quickly to avoid further problems. How Do I Replace an Ignition Switch? When you start your car the ignition switch will provide electricity to the charging, starting and ignition systems. Over time, it may become worn down or corroded. This can cause various issues, including difficulties starting your vehicle. To avoid further problems you should replace the ignition switch if it is malfunctioning. The procedure for changing an ignition switch could vary based on the make and model of your vehicle. However, in the majority of cases, the procedure is quite simple. To open the ignition switch, you'll have to take off either the dashboard or steering column cover. Once you have removed the cover then locate the ignition switch assembly underneath and carefully remove it. You will likely need to take off some screws too. After that, you'll have to disconnect the electrical wires from the ignition switch. Once you have disconnected all electrical connections, you can remove the cylinder that controls the ignition lock from the ignition switch. You will also need to remove the washers should they be fitted. Install the new switch after removing the old one. Be sure to align the switch with the ignition cylinder in a proper way. Once you've done that, you can reconnect all the wires and test your ignition switch. If everything is functioning properly, you can reassemble your steering column and the covers or panels you removed. In the majority of cases, you will need a new key when you replace your ignition switch. The key you have is likely to be worn out and incompatible with the new ignition switch. Some older models will work with the new ignition switch provided the key is in good condition. Consult a professional if you are not sure whether you require a replacement ignition switch or key. A locksmith or a dealership service shop should be able to tell you with certainty. You can also ask your auto parts shop to send you a new key that will work with the new ignition. Do I require a new Key? If your car is an older model with an ordinary key, you can usually replace the ignition switch without needing to purchase a new key. However, many modern cars come with security systems that are specialized and use more complex electronic designs. This means that a replacement ignition switch will most likely need to be linked to a brand new key in order to work effectively. In this case it is important to determine whether the cost of purchasing the new key is covered under the warranty or insurance coverage of your car. Only attempt to replace an ignition switch by using the proper tools. It is extremely easy to cause more harm by trying to force the stuck ignition or key out of its lock than you would by hiring a professional locksmith to do the job. Doing the job yourself could result in expensive repair bills for unrelated issues or, worse an automobile fire. The most frequent issue that occurs when an ignition switch breaks is that the vehicle won't start. This is typically due to a transponder chip issue or a malfunctioning ignition switch. If either of these are not working properly, it can cause the car to have trouble starting in certain places or the anti-theft device may activate. If your car won't start then you must take it to an auto locksmith in your neighborhood to have an inspection. They'll be able identify the issue and suggest the most efficient solution. If they have the proper tools and parts on hand they can also cut you a brand new car key or reprogram the current one to the new ignition. You will need to take your vehicle to a dealer for this replacement if it is equipped with transponder or smart keys chip (also called a proximity sensor-based key). The dealership will have to go through a relearning process to match the new key with the vehicle. This can be done at the shop or on the parking lot.