What Happens When Your Car Ignition Switch Fails?
A car ignition switch is the one that powers your vehicle’s engine, as well as a variety of other systems. It’s also a common source of frustration, such as keys that are difficult to turn or dashboard lights that flicker.
The ignition switch functions with a tumbler. It is used to translate your key’s movements into different positions that trigger functions. This article covers the basics of ignition switches and how to troubleshoot and fix them.
The Ignition Position
The ignition switch is one of the most vital car components that is often ignored. This small part allows you to turn on your engine and supplies energy to other systems within your vehicle, including the radio, lights and more. This is why it’s important to keep your ignition switch in good working order, and why you should be aware of what happens if it malfunctions.
There are a variety of ignition switches on the market in the present. They perform differently based on their design. For instance, traditional key operated switches utilize an elongated tumbler that has specially designed keys to activate electrical systems and then start the engine. This type of ignition switch may be connected to the lock cylinder, or removed from it and operated via mechanical linkage. More modern ignition switches use electronic modules to transmit heavy current instead of traditional tumblers and keys.
There are some common problems with ignition switches, regardless of the type you have. These issues are typically caused by wear and tear, or other external influences. A heavy keychain, for instance is a strain on the ignition switch every time it is inserted and removed. This causes wear on its internals. Also, extreme temperature changes can impact the lubricants and materials inside the ignition switch, leading to the switch to degrade over time.
If you notice these kinds of issues, it’s the right time to call a professional for help. Ignition switch malfunction is a serious problem that can cause serious damage for your vehicle, which is why it is imperative to fix any issues as soon as you notice them. It is also possible to take preventative measures to lower the likelihood of having to tackle these issues in the near future.
The Start Position
An ignition switch for cars is a basic piece of machinery that can make an enormous difference in manner in which your car operates. With a simple turn of a key or push of the button, it will start your engine as well as numerous other systems. It is a crucial part of your vehicle that enables you to travel quickly and safely. However, like any other piece of equipment, it can experience problems from time to time. These problems can not only stop your vehicle from starting, but also cause damage to other parts. Fortunately, you can avoid these issues by performing regular maintenance and by identifying the early warning indicators of ignition switch issues.
The majority of ignition switches come with four positions: lock acc, start and accessory. The lock position stops you from removing the key, and you are unable to use accessories or crank your engine when the switch is in this position. The acc position, or accessory mode, gives the power to devices like radios even when the engine isn’t running. This mode will drain your battery, so make sure to use it only sparingly.
The start position is where your engine operates. This includes the sensors, coils, and gauges in your dash. This triggers the spark plugs in your engine and combustion to ignite which then gets you moving. If you are having trouble in this position the ignition switch could be malfunctioning.
Multimeters can be used to test the function of your ignition switch. You can also check if the switch is working correctly by placing your ignition key and turning the steering wheel to the left or right. If you notice the gears are difficult to turn or the ignition switch is leaking then you must consult your local locksmith.
A bad ignition switch could cause your car ignition key replacement to be difficult to drive by making it difficult to turn the steering wheel. This could be a sign of a mechanical fault with the ignition switch that needs to be fixed, and it is recommended to bring your vehicle to a professional immediately if you notice any issues.
The Stop Position
When the key is in this position the circuits that receive the power from the ignition switch are turned off. This includes auxiliary systems like your radio, dash light and even your power seats. The power is also cut to the mechanical lock on the steering wheel, so you can’t move the wheel while the car is stationary. If you try to start the engine while the key is in this position, it may be stopped immediately as that’s when the security systems kick into action.
Typically the key is held in this position while you are driving. This is because it lets you to control your auxiliary and convenience systems while keeping the engine off and away from reach. The ignition switch could require you to press a little before it moves into this position, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. This is to ensure it recognizes the correct key and doesn’t permit a random key to start the engine.
There are a variety of symptoms if your ignition switch is faulty. Common ones include the engine not starting or turn the key, or accessories or other functions that suddenly cease to function. The ignition switch is an extremely complicated component that requires a professional auto mechanic to replace it.
To replace the ignition switch, you’ll first need to disconnect the negative terminal from your battery. Then, take off any plastic covers or pieces that hide the ignition switch from view. Once you’ve gained access to the cylinder, loosen the nut on the negative terminal and then slide it off the cable. Consult the owner’s manual for instructions on where the battery is located and how to disconnect it safely.
The Accessory Position
The ignition switch is one of the most crucial parts of your vehicle. It’s small, yet it’s vital to its functioning. It’s a typical point of failure therefore it’s essential to know what happens if your ignition switch fails. You must also be able diagnose the problem and repair it.
Most people don’t think about the ignition switch until they realize it doesn’t perform as it should. The switch is vital to the operation of nearly all parts of your vehicle, and can prevent many problems. The key is inserted into a small cylinder, and the switch is activated to allow power flow to other systems.
Modern ignition switches use electronic modules instead of mechanical gears, however, they do the same thing, activating almost all of your car’s systems. In the most extreme instances, a damaged switch can cause your engine to overheat or even cause the car to catch fire.
In the car’s manual, you’ll find the accessory position (ACC) which allows you to switch on electrical devices such as your radio, headlights and other accessories. These devices do not use the heavy current needed to start the engine because they draw the power directly from your battery. This is the ideal place to listen to music or use other devices while you’re driving, but don’t keep it on for too long.
If the key in your car isn’t turning in the cylinder, or if you are unable to start it at all, the ignition switch is likely to be malfunctioning. It’s sometimes difficult to tell if the problem is the switch or the key. Check the key for indications of wear and tear, such as scratches or dents and then check to see whether it’s plugged into the ignition cylinder. You can also examine the wiring inside the ignition switch. If the switch is in accessory position it is likely to have a pink, brown and red wire. However, only the red wire is normally hot. If the wire is not powered, the ignition switch may be damaged. If this is the situation seek out a professional.
