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What Happens When Your Car Ignition Switch Fails? The ignition switch in your car is the one that controls a variety of systems, including the engine. It can also be a source of frustration, like the key that is difficult to turn or dashboard lights which flicker. car ignition lock operates by translating the key movements into positions that trigger various functions. This article will cover the fundamentals of ignition switches, how to troubleshoot them and what to do if they fail. The Ignition Position The ignition switch is among the most vital car components but it is often neglected. This tiny component allows you to start your engine and supplies power to other systems in your vehicle, such as the radio, lights, and more. This is why it is vital to keep your ignition switch and what happens if it malfunctions. There are a variety of ignition switches available on the market currently, and all perform slightly different functions in accordance with their design. Traditional key operated switches, like, use a tumbler and specially designed keys to start the engine and also activate electrical systems. This type of ignition can be mounted or removed from the cylinder of the lock and controlled by a mechanical linkage or connected to it. Modern ignition switches employ electronic modules to transmit heavy current instead of the traditional tumblers and keys. Whatever type of ignition switch you are using in your car, however, there are a few typical issues that can happen. These issues are typically caused by wear and tear or external influences. A heavy keychain, for instance is a strain on the ignition switch each time it is inserted and then removed. This causes wear to the internals of the switch. Additionally, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause damage to the lubricants and materials in the ignition switch, leading to degrading over time. It's time to contact a professional if you experience any of these issues. The failure of the ignition can have grave consequences for your vehicle, so you should address any issues you notice promptly. You can also take preventative steps to lessen the chance that you will have to deal with this issue in the future. The Start Position An ignition switch for cars is a simple piece of machinery that makes a big difference in the way your car runs. It turns on the engine and many other systems with a single turning of the key or push of a switch. It is a crucial part of your car that enables you to travel quickly and safely. Like every other piece of machinery it will encounter issues periodically. These problems can not only stop your car from starting but also damage other components. You can avoid these problems by performing regular car maintenance, and recognizing early warning signs for ignition switch issues. The majority of ignition switches come with four positions: lock start, acc and accessory. The lock position blocks the removal of the key and you can't use accessories or crank your engine if the switch is in this position. The acc position, also known as accessory mode, gives power to accessories such as the radio even when the engine isn't running. This mode can drain your battery, so you should make sure to use it only sparingly. The starting position is where your engine operates. This includes the coils, sensors and gauges that are in your dashboard. This position also triggers the engine's spark plugs to start firing and generate combustion, which gets your car moving. If you are having trouble in this position your ignition switch might be malfunctioning. You can test the function of your ignition switch using a multimeter to check continuity. You can also test the switch by turning the steering wheel left or right while holding the key in the ignition. If you notice the gears are difficult to turn or the ignition switch leaks it is recommended to contact your local locksmith. A bad ignition switch could make your car difficult to drive as it becomes difficult to turn the steering wheel. This is a sign of a mechanical fault in the ignition switch that needs to be repaired, so it is recommended to take your car into a professional as soon as you spot any issues. The Stop Position When the key is in this position all circuits that get electricity from the ignition switch are turned off. This includes auxiliary systems like your radio and dash lights, as well as even your power seats. The power is also cut off to the mechanical lock in the steering wheel, meaning you can't move the wheel when the car is parked. If you try to turn the engine on while the key is in the “parked” position the anti-theft mechanism will kick in and the car will stall. Typically the key is held in this position while you drive. This is because you can control the auxiliary systems as well as convenience features while avoiding the engine. Based on the make and model of your vehicle, the ignition switch might require you to press a bit before it goes into this position. This is done to ensure that it is recognizing the right key and doesn't permit a random key to start the engine. If the ignition switch in your car is showing signs of wear and tear, you may experience a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include the engine not starting, difficulty in turning the key, or sudden failure of accessories or auxiliary features. The ignition switch is an extremely complex component and requires a skilled auto mechanic to replace it. To replace your ignition switch, first remove the negative terminal of your battery. Then, you'll need to remove any plastic coverings or pieces that block the ignition switch from view. Once you've gained access then loosen and slide the cable away from the negative terminal. Refer to your owner's manual for instructions on where the battery is located and how to disconnect it safely. The Accessory Position The ignition switch is among the most vital parts in your vehicle. It's small, but it's vital to its functioning. It's a common failure point, so it's important to know what happens if your ignition switch fails. You must also be able to identify the issue and repair it. Many people don't think about the ignition switch until it fails to work properly. The switch is the one that allows almost every component of your car to operate, and it can keep many issues from happening. The switch is activated by the small cylinder when the key is placed. Modern ignition switches are electronic and not mechanical gears. They do the same thing – they activate nearly all the systems in your car. In extreme cases a defective switch can cause your engine to overheat or even set fire to the vehicle. In the manual of your car, you'll discover the accessory position (ACC) which permits you to turn on electrical devices, such as your headlights, radios and other accessories. These devices do not use the massive current required to start the engine because they draw power directly from your battery. It's an excellent place to listen music or use other devices while driving. But don't leave it running for too long. The ignition switch may be faulty if your car key isn't easy to turn or if it won't turn at all. It may also be difficult to determine if the issue is with the switch, or if it's actually the key itself that's causing problems. Look at the key for signs of wear and tear such as scratches or dents and determine whether it's stuck inside the ignition cylinder. You can also check the wiring inside the ignition switch. If the switch is in accessory position, there is usually a pink, brown, and red wire. However only the red wire is typically hot. If the wire is not generating power, it might be the ignition switch that is damaged. If this is the situation you should consult a professional.