10 Life Lessons We Can Learn From Van Ignition Repair

Warning Signs That Your Vehicle Needs Ignition Repair

A malfunctioning ignition switch can be a huge pain. You could end up stranded in your vehicle and not able to drive it.

Lubricating your ignition can prevent it from getting stuck. This will help release any minor damage that may have occurred to the lock-wafers, and get your car back on the road.

Symptoms

The ignition switch is located on the steering wheel or dash and supplies voltage to the electrical systems of your vehicle. It also turns on the starter. As time passes, due to normal wear and tear and environmental conditions, the switch can fail or cease to function entirely. It is important to be aware of the warning signs and to have your vehicle repaired before the problem gets any more serious.

The first sign that you can tell is the difficulty in starting your car ignition switch. If you struggle to turn your key or it refuses to enter the ignition cylinder, it is usually due to excessive wear and tear on the internal cylinder or damage to the ignition switch. Try to lessen the stress on the ignition switch by using a lighter chain and avoid yanking, jiggling, or rough turning.

Other electrical issues that can suggest a malfunctioning ignition switch are issues with your radio or other devices when you turn the ignition key, such as flickering lights, and intermittently shutting off. This is probably the result of an electrical overcharge in the ignition switch. It's a sign you should have it checked out by an expert.

If your car's power steering or power seats aren't working when you turn the key, this could be an indication of a malfunctioning ignition switch. This may be caused by internal contacts not providing the required power, or an absence of current that prevents them from working. The ignition switch may be dirty or contaminated, and this is usually fixed by spraying the interior with a special cleaning product such as WD-40.

A malfunctioning ignition could cause the motor to keep running even after the key is removed from the cylinder. This is a very risky situation that should be corrected immediately. If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote starter the issue could be more difficult to determine and may require removal of the steering wheel in order to access the ignition cylinder. Utilizing a special tool to remove the steering wheel will allow you safely disconnect the battery and open the ignition cylinder.

Causes

The ignition switch wears down over time. However, improper use or neglect can speed up the process. Repairs or replacements of the ignition switch could be required depending on the reason.

The ignition key is sticky or hard to turn

A hard-to-turn key is a clear sign that the ignition switch may be malfunctioning. This is typically due to the accumulation of dust or moisture within the ignition housing, which could cause misalignment of internal parts.

This issue can be avoided by inspecting the ignition switch on a regular basis. If you find any issue, it is important to take action immediately to stop the issue from becoming worse.

Electrical Problems

A faulty ignition switch can also cause other electrical issues in the vehicle, like the dashboard lights not responding or other accessories. The ignition switch regulates the power to these components and systems.

Stalling While Driving

A malfunctioning ignition can cause the engine to stall while driving. This can be dangerous especially when you're traveling at a high speed or in traffic.

Ignition Problems with the Lock Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder stores the key, and it reads the anti-theft code, which allows the car to start. This mechanical component may wear out over the course of time. It could also be damaged if the ignition switch, steering column or key is damaged.

Spark Plugs and Wires

The spark plugs and wires are responsible for triggering the engine. To ensure that the engine will start when you turn the ignition key it is essential that they are in good shape. Spark wires and plugs that have damaged can cause a vehicle to be difficult to start, but can also cause the ignition system to fail.

Everything wears out with time, but routine maintenance and careful use can prolong the life of an ignition switch as well as other components of your vehicle. If you do not address any issue with the ignition switch in your vehicle you and your passengers are at risk of serious injury. To avoid a potentially deadly situation, make sure to disable the battery and disconnect the wiring from the ignition switch prior to performing any repairs.

Repair Options

Many car owners find their vehicle stuck in a certain position because the ignition switch doesn't turn. This problem is easily fixable when you have the proper tools. You can repair the ignition switch or replace it completely. The choice is entirely up to you however, you'll need to think about the cost of each option.

Ignition switches are often damaged due to a variety of causes, such as defective contact points or worn springs. The switch can also be affected by temperature and electrical issues. In these cases replacing the ignition could be the best solution. Avoid pushing a key into or out of the lock because this can cause more damage to the ignition.

There are a variety of steps involved in repairing an ignition switch, so it is important to consult a professional for help. Typically, the first step is disconnecting the battery. After the battery is disconnected, it is possible to remove cover made of plastic from the ignition switch and ignition cylinder. When you remove the plastic covers, it is essential to use a correct removal tool. Once the plastic covers are removed, it is possible to access the ignition switch and replace it.

The Fix Ignition Lock cylinder is also part of the ignition system, therefore in the event that the switch fails, the cylinder may be defective. This is a common problem in older vehicles and the cylinder could be repaired or replaced by a locksmith or dealer. The cylinder can be damaged due to excessive wear and tear or a crash.

It is vital to know that in the event that the ignition switch isn't functioning correctly, the key will likely also be bent or broken. In this scenario you may require a new master-key to ensure that your ignition system can recognize the key.

In some cases replacing the ignition switch or lock cylinder is the best solution for the customer. A replacement is likely to solve the problems that prevent the ignition system from getting the engine started. This is a cost-effective solution than repairing the ignition system.

Cost

Ignition coils play an important part in the ignition of your car and their failure could result in serious consequences. It could be due to corrosion or just wear and tear, a malfunctioning ignition coil may cause the engine to fail to turn over or begin. If this happens the mechanic will have to replace the ignition coil, which could cost between $150 and $350.

The mechanic is able to complete this task in a variety of ways, and the price will depend on the vehicle's model and make, as well as the age. In general, replacing an ignition switch is the cheapest alternative, while replacing a lock's cylinder and key may be more expensive.

A mobile mechanic can take about an hour to replace the ignition switch. This repair ignition lock cylinder requires taking off the steering wheel, disconnection of the battery, then removing any trim pieces covering the ignition switch in order to access it. For older vehicles, this will also require the use of a steering wheel lever or a locking pin remover both of which are available for rent from most auto locksmith ignition replacement parts stores. The old ignition switch will be removed and the new one installed. The electrical connector is then connected. The new ignition key cylinder will then be fitted, and the locking tab is secured to the cylinder. Then the trim panels that were removed will be replaced.

It can take as long as two hours to replace a lock cylinder using a key. This job involves more than just removing and replacing the switch. It could also require the replacement of the ignition control module, car battery or starter motor. The total cost for the components could be as high as $1000. It is also likely to require a replacement key cylinder, and it's recommended to get a master key made by a locksmith instead of using a duplicate that was created by the dealer.

It's worth the cost to hire a reputable mechanic to perform this kind of work, since DIY repairs can come with hidden costs. A reliable mechanic will be able to avoid these problems, which will save your time and money in the long in the long.