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The Importance of Ignition and Key Replacement The ignition switch is a crucial component of the start-up system of your vehicle. It's a simple switch but it's important. It channels the full power of your battery into sparks that ignite the vapor of fuel and begins the engine. As with any complex system the ignition switch is prone to become problematic over time. Sometimes, it might require a bit of adjustments to make it work. Other times it may need to be replaced. What is an Ignition Switch? One of the most crucial elements of your vehicle, the ignition switch allows you to turn on all the electrical systems that will start your engine. It's important however, it is often misunderstood. This could lead to problems with your car. We're here to help understand the basics of how the ignition switch works, what causes it to fail and how you can keep it running smoothly. Your ignition switch has three main options including accessory, off and on. In the off position, your key can be removed, but nothing else will turn on. This turns off all systems that do not require 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 start your vehicle, you need to connect the ignition switch to the circuit that powers the starter motor. ignition lock repair must be able to unlock the ignition cylinder before it is able to do this. This is done by recognizing the key that was cut, and it's done electronically. The locking and unlock functions of your ignition switch are handled by a small tumbler, which must match a particular cut on your key. The tumbler has different ramps on each side and when you insert your key it pushes it into these different ramps in order to activate the system in the most appropriate manner. The ignition switch is usually an unimportant component that goes by unnoticed until something goes wrong. It's important to replace it when it appears to be failing, because it is responsible for all of the major systems in your car. Luckily professional auto locksmiths can easily replace your ignition switch and restore your vehicle's functionality to its fullest. How Does an Ignition Switch Work? If you've ever felt frustrated by a car that wouldn't start, there's a good chance the ignition switch is to blame. An ignition switch is an electric switch that completes the circuit that powers your engine. It is part of your vehicle's key cylinder or ignition button in the latest models. It's a complex system that must be operating correctly for your car to start and function properly. There are four positions that your ignition switch could be in off, accessory, on and start. The off position stops the flow of power to systems like your radio or HVAC controls. The accessory position allows systems that do not require a lot of power to function like the dashboard lights and the fuel pump priming. The on position powers the starter and the start position is 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 great deal of current running through them. Instead, they are used to control relays that allow the functions to work. This means they are susceptible to a great deal of wear and tear as time passes. They can also fail due to heat, aging, or even heavy key chains. The ignition switch also comes with a mechanical locking mechanism to ensure your vehicle's security when it is parked. It is a safety measure designed to stop the theft of your vehicle. However, it can be affected by malfunctioning internal components. You might find that your vehicle is taking longer to start than normal or it doesn't start at all. These are all indications that your ignition is in need of be replaced. This is a critical part of your vehicle that you depend on to get you where you'd like to get to. It is best to get an expert to pinpoint the issue quickly to avoid further problems. How Do I Replace an Ignition Switch? The ignition switch provides power to the starting, charging and ignition systems every time you start your vehicle. Over time the ignition switch can become worn out or become corroded. This could cause a variety of problems such as difficulty starting your vehicle. If you have a defective ignition switch, it is recommended to replace it right away to avoid any further problems. The process of changing an ignition switch could vary based on the make and model of your vehicle. In the majority of cases, however the process is fairly easy. To access the ignition switch, you'll need to take off either the steering column or dashboard cover. After you've removed the steering column or dashboard cover, locate it and pry away the ignition switch assembly. You will likely need to remove some screws too. After that, you'll need to disconnect the electrical wires from the ignition switch. After you have disconnected the electrical connections, you can remove the ignition lock cylinder from the ignition switch. If the ignition switch is equipped with washers, then you'll have to take them off. After you have removed the ignition switch and cylinder, you will have to install the new switch. Be sure to align the switch with the ignition cylinder in a proper way. After you have completed this, you can connect the wire and test the ignition switch. If everything is functioning properly you can put back together your steering column, as well as the covers or panels you have removed. In most cases you will require a new ignition switch key. This is because the old key is likely to have worn out and no longer compatible with your new ignition switch. However, certain older models of vehicles are capable of using the current key with the new ignition switch, provided that the key is in good shape. If you are unsure whether or not you'll require a new ignition switch, it is best to seek out an expert. A locksmith or dealership service shop can provide you with a definitive answer. You could also ask your auto parts shop to send you the 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 are able to replace the ignition switch without also needing to get a new key. However, a lot of modern vehicles come with security systems that are specialized and utilize more sophisticated electronic designs. A replacement ignition switch must be connected to a brand new key to function properly. In this case you must determine whether the cost of purchasing the new key is covered by your warranty or insurance policy for your vehicle. 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 simply getting a professional locksmith to do the job. Trying to do the job yourself could result in costly repair costs from unrelated issues or, even more serious an automobile fire. The most common problem when an ignition switch breaks is that your vehicle is unable to start. This is often due to a problem with the transponder chip or ignition switch itself. If one or the other is not functioning correctly, the car could have trouble starting in certain positions. The anti-theft device could be activated. If your car isn't starting, you should bring it to an auto locksmith in your area to have an inspection. They will be able diagnose the issue and suggest the most effective solution. If they have the right tools and components available, they can also cut you a brand new car key or reprogram the existing one to the new ignition. You'll need to take your vehicle to a dealer for this replacement when it's equipped with a smart key or transponder chip (also known as a proximity sensor based key). The dealership will have to perform a relearning procedure to match the new key with the vehicle. This can be done at the shop or on the parking lot.