Ignition Cylinder Problems

What is an Ignition Cylinder?

Your ignition cylinder is not something you are likely to be thinking about on a daily basis, if at all. Until, of course, the time comes when you inevitably find yourself being unable to properly use it. An ignition cylinder, or ignition switch as it is also commonly known, is a small, but critical part of one’s vehicle. It is the round, metal slot typically built into and on the right side of the steering wheel of most vehicles. When you insert your key into the slot to turn on your car, you are effectively engaging the ignition cylinder, which then allows for power to flow through the car’s circuits. The small cylinder-shaped device works by turning on the electrical systems of the car when the key is inserted into the slot and twisted.

Additionally, the primary purpose of an ignition switch is safety. A proper and secure key and lock system on your car is the best way that you are able to protect your car from theft. Understanding the issues that can arise with ignition cylinders will help save you a lot of time and hassle. Below you will find specific instances that might indicate there is a problem with your ignition cylinder.

Potential Ignition Cylinder Issues

Ignition cylinder issues are common. If you attempt to turn on your car and find yourself with one of the following problems, there is a good chance you may have an issue with your ignition cylinder or switch:

• Your car fails to turn on
• Your car stalls while you are driving
• Your key fails to remain in the “on” position in the switch
• Your interior lights and electronics do not respond when you insert and twist your key.

Car Fails to Turn On

There is never a convenient time for your car to fail to turn on. When you need to get from one place to another, there is usually a sense of urgency or time constraint. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a couple things you can do. Be sure to remain calm. This can be a stressful circumstance, even if it is resolved quickly. Once you have acknowledged that there is something potentially wrong with the car and calmed down, examine a couple of basics. Are you using the correct key? Are you turning the key enough? While these might seem like basic questions, when we are rushed or nervous that something may be wrong, we tend to make mistakes.

Try the same procedure again slowly and deliberately a couple times, pausing for a few seconds in between each try. Listen for any strange sounds coming from the car or any other oddities while attempting to turn the car on. These signals can help you identify if the problem is, indeed, your ignition cylinder so it is important to pay attention. If there is still no response, examine the entrance of the key slot. Is there anything blocking it? Does it look damaged in any way? If you’ve established that nothing is blocking the switch entrance, it may be time to take your car into a mechanic or locksmith to have the interior workings looked at.

Your Car Stalls While Driving

This is actually one of the most typical indications that your car’s ignition cylinder is worn out, although it can feel like the source of the problem is much bigger. Because this is a common problem, understand that it is not your fault if you find yourself in this situation if your ignition cylinder is, in fact, no longer working. The older your car is and depending on how often you use your car, this can add additional wear and tear to the ignition cylinder. While it may be inconvenient, the good news is that the ignition switch is easy to replace and affordable. If your car has been stalling while driving, take your car into a trusted locksmith and have the ignition cylinder replaced and to ensure that it is neither a battery issue nor some other problem with your car.

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