As most drivers do, you won’t be aware of a series of complex procedures that occur when you get in a car every morning. Plugging the key into the ignition switch and starting the car feels like a natural thing. However, if your car has an ignition switch problem, you may not be able to start the car. Ignition lock cylinder distresses can also cause difficulties on the highways, such as unpredicted power failure and electrical coordination troubles. Most people don’t think the latest car has an ignition lock problem, but it’s quite common. Symptoms vary depending on the nature of the breakdown. You may not be capable of turning the key in the cylinder, or you may not be able to turn it.
Certainly, ignition switch glitches are not fun. In particular, it is even more difficult to go to work, school, or play. If there is a problem with the ignition switch, you can prevent stuck if you deal with it immediately. If you are facing ignition switch problems in Kansas City, Missouri, we can help you with our services and suitable advice. Usually, a bug in the ignition switch prevents the start of the car, but sometimes the running engine stops. In any case, it is a big inconvenience. This section describes common issues with ignition lock cylinder and how to troubleshoot them.
5 Issues with Ignition Lock Cylinder and How to fix
Usually, the engine of the car should start just by turning the key once. If there is no engine, there is a problem to deal with. Here are some common issues.
1. The keys don’t turn.
This problem can occur in older or more recent cars. The key may not move in the ignition switch. In general, old and worn keys are the cause of this problem. Put your hand below the ignition and try to relocate the key. If a piece of metal is attached to the hand, it is proof that the switch or key is worn. Recent pushy ignition cars may be due to anti-theft mode.
Repair Method
The first way to resolve it instantly is to use a joint key. Replace the old key with the spare key and try applying the engine. You may suck out what is blocking the key with the vacuum. In this case, it is recommended not to use the driver forcibly. It is ineffective and causes serious damage.
For push ignition vehicles, you can program the anti-theft system from the car’s control panel or by inserting a key into the driver’s door. The system recognizes the key and resumes anti-theft mode.
2. Breaks keys in ignition
A broken key in the ignition switch is a common problem. Old and damaged keys crack inside the switch under stress. An immediate solution is needed when the ignition is unusable.
Repair Method
You can pull the key from the ignition using the tool. It is convenient to use a peeler or a bow. If this still doesn’t work, try using WD-40. Spray the ignition inside and grip it for a small number of seconds. Then slowly push out the key with the help of the bow blade.
3. Worn Wafer
Wafers are designs or patterns inside ignition switches that conform to key patterns for starting engines. There are three different sizes according to the three different depths or cuts of the key. In older ignition switches and bad ignition switches, the wafer may become clogged or worn, causing defects in key movement and engine start.
Repair Method
Absorb garbage accumulated in wafers with a vacuum. If it still does not work, you may need to replace the ignition switch. Ignition switches may need to be replaced. On the online market, you can find the right ignition switch for your car.
4. Push start switch does not work
The new car has a push ignition switch with its problem. Electrical ignition systems may come across faulty transponder problems. In this case, the transponder cannot recognize the key or fob and the engine does not start. It usually happens when physical collisions or transponder hacking is attempted.
Repair Method
You should not repair the transponder key yourself unless you have the correct knowledge and expertise, because it is a complex electrical system. To solve this problem, you need to ask a car dealer or expert. Do not rearrange or rearrange failed keys into other car keys. The microchip of all keys is unique, so it doesn’t work.
5. Keys don’t move in ignition
Due to the wear of ignition cylinders and steering locks, the keys may be lost. Both of these causes prevent the key from rotating in the switch.
Repair method
By rotating the key by rotating the steering back and forth, you can remove the key of the car that is no longer missing. Please be careful not to put it in force because the situation may deteriorate.
Prevent ignition switch troubles
- Use a light key holder to reduce the burden on ignition switches.
- Keep keys and ignition cylinders clean and no garbage.
- Keep the steering straight and park so as not to stress.
- Maintain the electric system of the car regularly.
- Quickly deal with warning lights and abnormal symptoms.
- Do not force or suddenly turn when turning the key, do it quietly.
- Store in a garage or roof to protect your car from extreme temperatures.
Signs of lock cylinder failure
Ignition lock is the most common symptom associated with cylinder failure:
The key does not turn:
This is the most common sign of a faulty lock cylinder. This problem usually occurs when the pins inside the tumbler are deteriorated over time.
Keys are difficult to rotate:
when ignition cylinders wear and start to malfunction, the keys may become difficult to rotate. In many cases, it is necessary to turn it into a zigzag or tingle it in other ways to rotate it.
On lock cylinders, the anti-theft system includes anti-theft warning lights. If the contact inside the cylinder fails, it may light up the dashboard with warning lights.
Cause of ignition switch failure
Various factors can cause ignition switch failure, and diagnosing problems and effectively addressing them requires understanding these causes. The following are the main factors that can lead to ignition switch failure:
Normal attrition:
Over time, mechanical and electrical components of ignition switches are degraded by normal use. Repeated keys and currents can cause internal contact points and springs to wear out, leading to loss of function.
Electrical overload:
The electric system of the car may cause voltage spikes and surges due to alternator defects, battery defects, jump start errors, etc. Such irregular voltages can damage the internal components of the ignition switch and cause malfunction.
Contaminants and corrosion:
Especially when there is a gap or crack in the housing, dust, dirt and moisture may enter the ignition switch over time. The accumulation of such contaminants can interfere with the smooth operation of the internal components of the switch and lead to electrical connection problems.
Key insertion problem:
In vehicles with older or more frequently used keys, the key itself may be worn or damaged. Worn keys do not bite the ignition switch properly, making it difficult to turn the key, which can stress the internal parts of the switch.
Accidentally remove the key:
The driver may turn off the ignition while driving or parking. This can cause early wear, as the ignition switch is not designed to move frequently when it is loaded.
Manufacturing defects:
In rare cases, manufacturing or design defects of ignition switches themselves may lead to early failures. Such problems can be caused by poor materials, improper assembly, or insufficient quality control during manufacturing.
Excessive weight of the keychain:
Carrying a heavy keychain with a large number of keys, key fobs and other accessories will cause extra stress on the ignition switch when inserting keys. Such an increase in weight could accelerate wear and damage inside the switch.
Environmental factors:
Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect materials and lubricants inside ignition switches, leading to ageing and failure, especially in harsh areas in winter.
Theft and vandalism attempt:
Theft or vandalism may damage the switch and prevent it from working if someone tries to force the vehicle to start or append it to an ignition switch.
Identifying the specific reasons for a failed ignition switch is important for determining suitable solutions, which include repair, cleansing, and replacement. In addition, periodic preservation and prevention of useless burden on ignition switches can extend lifestyles and prevent surprising failure.
Read also: How to Remove an Ignition Cylinder Without a Key?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I apply new keys for ignition lock cylinders?
If the key has a transponder chip, it ought to be programmed to shape the auto’s computer. There are unique ways to software new keys depending on the producer and version of the auto. There are ways to apply scanning tools, how to use keys in operation, how to use special code, and so forth. Specific steps to your vehicle may be found in the training guide or online.
2. How can I test if the ignition lock cylinder is defective?
One manner to test if the ignition lock cylinder is failing is to apply a multimeter to check the voltage of the ignition switch terminal. Remove the battery cable and do away with the steering column cowl to discover the ignition transfer assembly. Next, you want to probe the terminal with a multimeter and evaluate the anticipated values and measurements at every key position. If the measurement value is not constant or within the allowable variety, the ignition lock cylinder can also have failed.
3. If the ignition key no longer turns, how do I fix it?
There are several easy ways to repair ignition keys that don’t flip around. Remove a touch before turning the key, move it gently backwards and forward whilst turning the important thing, position the key in numerous instances and eliminate the rubbish, loosen the lock cylinder use of a lubricant, and so forth.
Read also: How to get a replacement car key without the original?
Video Guidance:
Here is a video guidance for you to know about the symptoms of a bad ignition lock cylinder:
Conclusion:
In this text, I found out how to troubleshoot ignition lock cylinder issues and how to update faulty elements. The ignition lock cylinder became observed to be a crucial factor of the ignition gadget of the auto that rotates the key to start the engine. In addition, I found out approximately common signs and symptoms of ignition, lock, and cylinder defects, together with hard-to-turn rounds, the engine not beginning, keys not going out, and most. By following the commands and tips delivered, you may diagnose and repair your ignition lock cylinder troubles and save mechanic expenses. But in case you want any advice of a professional installer or locksmith, feel free to contact us or visit on patriotlocksmithks.com.