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The Importance of Ignition and Key Replacement The ignition switch is a straightforward but vital component of your car's start-up system. It channels the full power of your battery into sparks that ignite the vapor of fuel and begins the engine. Like any other complex system the ignition switch is no exception. It can suffer problems over time. It might be necessary to jig it a little to get it working. Other times it may need to be replaced. What is an Ignition Switch? The ignition switch is one of the most vital elements of your vehicle. It lets you turn all of the electrical systems on to start your car. Despite its importance, it is possible for it to be misunderstood, which could cause problems with your vehicle. We want to help explain the fundamentals of the ignition switch, how it works and what causes it to fail, and how to keep it functioning smoothly. There are three settings in your ignition switch on, off, and on. In the off position, the key can be removed but nothing else turns on. This will disable all systems that don't involve the engine's start, such as the dome lights and a few of the 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 needs to connect to the circuit that powers the starter motor. To accomplish this, the ignition switch must first be unlocked from the ignition cylinder. This is accomplished by recognizing the right key cut, and it's accomplished electronically. A small tumbler is responsible for locking and unlocking your ignition switch. It must match the unique cut of your key. The tumbler has different ramps on each side and when you insert your key, it pushes the key into those different ramps to turn on the system in the most appropriate manner. The ignition switch is usually an insignificant component that is by unnoticed until something goes wrong. Since it's the one that controls all the major systems that allow your car to run, it's important to take care of it and have it replaced as soon as you think it's not working. Luckily, professional auto locksmiths can easily replace the ignition switch and restore your car's full functionality. How does an ignition switch function? If your vehicle has ever failed to start it's likely that the ignition switch is at fault. An ignition switch is an electrical device that completes the circuit that powers your engine. It is part of your car's key cylinder or the ignition button in the latest models. It's a complicated system that needs to function correctly for your vehicle to start and function properly. Your ignition switch has four positions including accessory, off on and Start. The off position prevents any power from reaching systems like your radio or HVAC controls. The accessory position is for systems that don't require a lot of power, such as dashboard lights as well as the fuel pump prime. The on position powers your starter, while the start position is where you turn your engine in order to get it started. In the ignition switch, there are contacts that shut when the position is changed. They do not have a high current passing through them, but rather they act as relays to allow the functions to function. They are susceptible to a lot of wear and tear as time passes. They are also susceptible to failure due to aging and heat, as well as heavy key chains that cause them to move and bend, which can eventually result in the contacts breaking off. In addition, the ignition switch has a mechanical lock inside of it, which protects your vehicle when it's in a parking spot. It is a safety measure designed to stop your vehicle from being stolen. However, it could be affected by malfunctioning internal parts. If your ignition switch isn't functioning properly, you might find that it takes longer than normal to start your car, or that the engine doesn't start at all. These are all signs that your ignition switch is in need to be replaced. It's a crucial part of your car that you depend on to get where you'd like to go. It's recommended to consult a professional to diagnose the problem quickly so you can avoid further complications. How Do I Replace an Ignition Switch? When you start your vehicle the ignition switch supplies power to the charging, starting and ignition systems. Over time, the ignition switch may become worn out or become corroded. This can cause various issues such as difficulty getting your car started. If you have a defective ignition switch, you should replace it right away to avoid any more issues. The procedure to replace an ignition switch varies depending on the model and year of your vehicle. In most cases, however the procedure is simple. To access the ignition switch, you'll need to remove either the dashboard or steering column cover. Once you have removed your cover find the ignition switch underneath and gently pull it out. You may also have to take off some screws. After that, you'll need to disconnect the electrical wires from the ignition switch. Once you have disconnected all electrical connections then you'll be able to remove the ignition lock from the ignition switch. It is also necessary to remove the washers if equipped. Install the new switch after you have removed the old switch. Make sure you align the key switch to the ignition cylinder correctly. After you've done this, you are able to reconnect the wiring and test the ignition switch. If everything is working properly, you can reassemble your steering column, as well as any panels or covers you removed. In most instances, you'll require a new key when replacing your ignition switch. The old key will likely be worn out and incompatible with the new switch. However, certain older models of vehicles are able to use the existing key with the new ignition switch provided that the key is in good working order. If you aren't sure whether or not you will require a new key you should consult an expert. A locksmith or dealership service shop will be able to inform you with certainty. You can also request your auto parts store to provide you with a new key, that will work with the new ignition switch. Do I need a new Key? If ignition system repair cost is an older model and a standard key you can change the ignition without the need for an entirely new key. Many modern vehicles use complex electronic designs and specialized security systems. This means that a replacement ignition switch will most likely need to be linked to a brand new key to work properly. In this situation you should see if your car warranty or insurance covers the cost of the replacement key. Only attempt to replace an ignition switch using the correct tools. It is very easy to cause more damage by trying to force an ignition or key stuck out of its lock than you would by simply getting a professional locksmith to do the job. You could be left with expensive repair bills or, even worse, an ignition fire in your vehicle If you attempt to do it yourself. When an ignition switch is broken the most frequent issue is that your vehicle isn't starting. This is often due to a problem with the transponder chip, or the ignition switch itself. If either of these are not functioning properly, it could cause the car to have problems starting in certain positions or the anti-theft system may be activated. If your car isn't starting, you should bring it to an auto locksmith in your area for an inspection. They will be able to identify the issue and recommend the best solution. If they have the proper tools and parts available they can make a new car key or program your existing key to the new ignition. If your car has an transponder chip or smart key (also called a proximity sensor-based key), you will be required to bring it to the dealership to get this kind of replacement. 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.