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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 transforms the power of the battery in your car into a spark that ignites fuel and starts your engine. Like any complicated system the ignition switch may develop problems over time. Sometimes, it will require adjustment to get it to function. In other cases, it may need to be replaced. What is an Ignition Switch? One of the most crucial components of your vehicle The ignition switch allows you to turn on all electrical systems that start your engine. Despite its importance, it can be misunderstood, which may result in issues with your vehicle. We want to help you learn the basics of how the ignition switch functions and what causes it to fail and how to keep yours running smoothly. Your ignition switch has three principal positions that are accessory, off, and on. In the off position, your key can be removed but nothing else will turn on. This will disable all systems that do not require starting your engine, 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. The ignition switch needs to unlock the cylinder that controls your ignition before it can do this. This is done by recognizing the right key cut, and then it's done electronically. The locking and unlock functions of the ignition switch are controlled by a tiny tumbler that must be matched to a specific 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 turn on the system in the desired manner. The ignition switch is usually an unimportant component that goes without notice unless something goes wrong. Considering it's responsible for all the major systems that allow your vehicle to function, it's important that you take care of it and have it replaced as soon as you think it's failing. Luckily professional auto locksmiths can easily replace the ignition switch and restore your car's full functionality. How Does an Ignition Switch Work? If your vehicle has ever not started it's possible that the ignition switch was the cause. An ignition switch is a kind of electrical switch that connects a circuit to start your engine. It's part of the key cylinder inside your vehicle, or the ignition button in newer automobiles. It's a complicated system that needs to be working correctly for your vehicle to start and operate properly. There are four positions that your ignition switch can be in: off, accessory, on and start. The off position prevents any power from being sent to systems like your radio or HVAC controls. The accessory position is for systems that don't require much power to work like the dashboard lights and the fuel pump priming. The on position powers your starter, while the start position is where you turn your engine in order to get it started. In your ignition switch, there are contacts that shut when the position changes. The contacts don't have a lot of current moving through them. Instead, they are used to control relays which make the functions work. As such, they are susceptible to a great deal of wear and tear over time. They also are prone to failure due to aging, heat, and even heavy key chains that cause them to sway and bend and eventually result in the contacts separating. In addition to this the ignition switch also has an electronic lock within it, which protects your vehicle while it's parked. It is a safety measure designed to stop your vehicle from being stolen. However, it can be impeded by defective internal components. If your ignition switch isn't functioning correctly, you may find that it takes longer than normal to start your car, or that your engine won't start at all. These are all indications that your ignition switch is in need to be replaced. ignition lock repair services is a critical part of your car that you depend on to get you where you want to go. It's recommended to get a professional diagnosis of the issue as soon as possible so that you don't get into further trouble. How Do I Replace an Ignition Switch? When you turn on your vehicle, the ignition switch provides electricity to the charging, starting and ignition systems. Over time the ignition switch can get worn down or become corroded. This can lead to a range of issues for your vehicle, including difficulty starting the engine. If you've got a damaged ignition switch, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to avoid any further problems. The procedure for changing an ignition switch could differ based on the model of your car. In the majority of cases the procedure is easy. To open the ignition switch, you'll have to remove either the steering column or dashboard cover. Once you have removed your cover, locate the ignition switch assembly beneath and gently pull it out. You may also need to remove a few screws. You will then need to disconnect the switch's wires. Once 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, you will need to remove them. Once you have removed the ignition switch and cylinder, you will have to replace the switch. Make sure that you align the switch with the ignition cylinder correctly. After you have completed this, you are able to reconnect the wiring and test the ignition switch. If everything is working correctly then you can rebuild the steering column, as well as any covers or panels that you removed. In the majority of cases, you'll require a new ignition key. This is because the previous key is likely to be damaged and not compatible with your new ignition switch. However, some older models of vehicles will be capable of using the current key with the new ignition switch in the event that the key is in good condition. Get a professional's help if you are not sure whether you require a replacement ignition switch or key. A locksmith or dealership service shop will be able tell you for sure. You could also ask your auto parts shop to send you an alternative key that can work with the new ignition. Do I require a new Key? If your car is older with an ordinary key, you are able to replace the ignition switch without also having to purchase an entirely new key. However, many modern cars feature security systems that are specifically designed and utilize more sophisticated electronic designs. An ignition switch replacement must be paired with a brand new key in order to function properly. In this case you must determine if the cost of the new key is covered under the warranty or insurance coverage of your car. Do not attempt to replace an ignition switch using the correct tools. You may cause more damage when you attempt to force an ignition key stuck inside its lock out, than if you hired an expert locksmith. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in costly repair costs from unrelated issues or even worse the possibility of a car fire. The most frequent issue when an ignition switch fails is that your vehicle is unable to start. This is typically caused by a problem with the transponder chip, or the ignition switch itself. If either of these are not working properly it can cause the car to have trouble starting in certain places or the anti-theft system could activate. Generally, if your car will not start you should visit a local auto locksmith for an inspection. They will be able to identify the issue and suggest the best solution. If they have the right tools and parts on hand they can also cut you a brand new car key or programme the current one to the new ignition. If your vehicle has transponder chips or a smart key (also called a proximity sensor-based key), you will have to take it to the dealership to get this kind of replacement. They will need to perform an anti-theft relearn procedure on your vehicle in order to pair the new key with the vehicle. This can be accomplished at the location of the shop or the parking lot.