7 IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEMS AND HOW TO FIX THEM
Another problem of change of common ignition is that the engine does not start, although it has already lit the ignition key. It could be caused by a bad ignition switch, or there is something wrong with the starting circuit. A worn ignition switch also causes your engine to turn off while driving, which can be very dangerous.
The ignition switch contains several contacts. They are connected to vital electrical systems, which are needed for the automobile to start and run. In general, when the car is off, the ignition switch is not connected to anything. But when you turn on the car, your start relay is activated. This causes the engine to turn on.
How to fix it?
To find out if there is a problem with the ignition switch, the first thing you should do is make sure that your car’s electrical system is in good working condition. If all the parts of the electrical system are working, but your car still does not start, then the problem is the ignition switch. In this case, you should consider replacing your ignition switch with a new one.
- The engine goes off while driving
As mentioned above, a worn-out switch can also make your engine turn off while driving. The worn ignition switch has used contacts, which causes a momentary voltage loss due to vibration, especially when driving on a raw path or heat. Once the ignition switch loses energy, it will make the engine paralyze or turn off.
There are also occasions in which a defective ignition switch can make your car start and then suddenly stop. If you have a defective ignition switch, your car will start and immediately stop. Next, insert the key and turn it to the ‘on’ position. The ignition switch can only give a power to the fuel pump momentarily while still in the boot position, which allows you to start your vehicle. A defective ignition switch cuts the power of the fuel system and on your vehicle once the key is turned in the ‘on’ position.
The ignition switches can use over time. The more you use your car, the more you use your ignition switch. The electrical contacts found inside the ignition switch can be used or corroded over time, which makes it lose energy momentarily.
The wear of the ignition switches can also become much worse if you have a heavy or large key that swings and tilts on the switch while driving. Over time, this will make your ignition switch use quickly and fail.
How to fix it?
Once your ignition switch is already used, you must replace it with a new one. Also, avoid using heavy or large key rings to help prolong the useful life of your ignition switch after replacing it with a new one.
- The accessories can not be turned on.
Another common ignition exchange problem is that you have trouble lighting your vehicle accessories, such as dashboard lights, indoor lights and central console. Apart from the engine, once it is inserted and a key becomes a key, you must expect the accessories of your car too. You can also say the same if your instrument board goes off suddenly or flashes while driving.
If you inserted the key and turned around and the accessories of your vehicle do not turn on, it could be a signal that there is a problem with the ignition switch or the lock cylinder. However, most of the time, this problem is often caused by a faulty wiring and electrical problems within the vehicle.
How to fix it?
The best way to solve this problem is to have your vehicle properly diagnosed by a professional mechanic so you can discover the exact reasons why you can not turn on your accessories.
Final thoughts
Notation of the symptoms of a defective ignition switch is important to help you prevent the problems caused by it. It can also help you make sure it runs at a high performance level and will extend your longevity. Educate on the symptoms of a defective ignition switch so you can alert your mechanic about new problems with your vehicle.
If you have problems with your ignition switch, the best you can do about it is to take your car to a car repair workshop or contact a professional automotive locksmith. They will review your car to determine the cause of your ignition switch problems. They should also be replaced their ignition switch with a new one, if necessary. Do not attempt to replace your defective ignition switch on your own. The ignition switches are very difficult to eliminate, as they are designed to dissuade the robbery of the vehicle. Let a professional do the work for you.