WHAT TO DO, IGNITION CYLINDER PROBLEMS
Did you know that your ignition cylinder is a lock? Yes, it is! That is why you have to use a key to access it. Nowadays, ignition cylinders are getting fancier. As technology improves and gets more advanced, the type of lock that is used may change. However, all vehicles are capable of having trouble with their ignition systems.
If you realize that your ignition cylinder needs to be replaced, take it to the best locksmith company- Locksmith Morrow GA. We can replace your ignition cylinder so you will no longer have to worry about it.
Things You Should Know About Your Ignition Cylinder
If you are a driver, you should already know this information. However, you may not have realized how important it was as it relates to the functioning of your vehicle. The ignition cylinder is the switch that power to several areas of your vehicle. If it is not functioning, it will be difficult for your car to operate.
The ignition cylinder usually has four different positions. You should notice this when you attempt to start your vehicle or when you shut off the engine but you keep other devices running.
There is the off/ lock position where there is no power to the engine or the electrical accessories.
The acc position which gives power to the electrical accessories but not the engine.
The on/run position that allows all parts of the vehicle to be powered.
The start position, where you have to turn the key in order for the vehicle to start.
Of course, in many newer vehicles, you may not see these options as many cars now have a push to start button. However, the principle remains very similar. Signs That Something Is Wrong with Your Ignition Cylinder
There are many signs that can alert you to a problem with your ignition cylinder. If you are not very observant, you may miss some of them. However, there are some signs that are extremely obvious and will be difficult for you to miss. Even if you are not a vehicle expert, you should know some of the things to look out for. It doesn’t mean that you will be the one to repair or replace the ignition cylinder but it will be helpful if you have an idea of what is going on.
Not sure what signs indicate a faulty ignition cylinder? Here are some of the most common problems that people encounter
Your key gets stuck in the ignition
This is not an uncommon problem that many drivers face. Before you panic, make sure that you check your steering wheel to see if it is in a locked position. If it isn’t, it’s time to check the gear that you’re in. Many vehicles will prevent you from removing the key if you are not in a neutral gear or park. If you realize that you have done everything correct but the key is still stuck, you may have to call a locksmith. Usually, a stuck key means that there is some form of binding in the locking mechanism. Your locksmith should be able to get the key out for you without damaging the ignition cylinder.
The key is broken and a piece is left in the ignition switch
A broken key is nothing new. If this is the first time that it has happened to you, don’t worry. You’re not the first and it is highly likely that you won’t be the last. If a piece of key gets left in the lock, you may be able to extract it yourself, but be extremely careful. You don’t want to damage the lock in the process. The best thing to do is call a locksmith. They are trained to handle situations like this.
Your key cannot turn on the ignition switch
Sometimes you may put your key in the ignition switch and realize that you cannot turn it to start the vehicle. This is particularly common if you have problems inserting or removing the key. in many of these cases, there is a lot of wear and tear in the ignition cylinder so the pins are not aligned properly. Before you conclude that this is what is happening to you, make sure that you check the gear you’re in. Some cars have safety features that prevent the car from being started in the wrong gear. If you are not in Park or Neutral, make sure you shift to one of those gears and try again.
