Ignition Switch Replacement Service

If your ignition doesn’t work, you might as well throw away the whole car. Okay, sure, maybe that’s physically impossible, but what can you do with it now? You can’t start it, after all. What’s it good for? All it can do is sit there – until you get it fixed.

If your key is turning in the ignition, but nothing’s happening, there’s likely something wrong with the ignition switch. Without a functioning ignition switch, the car won’t be able to start until you can get the malfunctioning mechanism replaced with one that works.

At The Key Man Locksmith, we can give you a quality ignition switch replacement in Washington DC. Our technicians are experts in all kinds of auto locksmith services. They have the lock expertise to deal with the intricate mechanisms inside your car. If you need this vital locksmith service, then call us today.

How To Know If You Need Ignition Switch Replacement In DC

Sometimes it can be hard to determine what’s wrong with your ignition and whether or not you need a Washington DC ignition switch replacement. Here are ways to know there’s something off about your ignition switch.

What happens when you rotate the key? There are four positions on the ignition, and each should do different things to your car. The “OFF” position should leave your vehicle totally off, while the “ACC,” or accessory, should give power to the A/C and radio. The “ON” position should activate your lights and windows, while “START” should start the engine.

The ignition switch may be currently busted if the dashboard doesn’t activate when it’s flipped to “ON.” You might also notice excess heat from the ignition when you turn the key. Your car might occasionally jerk hard.

There are many other ways an ignition switch can malfunction, so call a locksmith if you believe something is off.

The DC Ignition Switch Replacement Process

Before giving you an ignition switch replacement in Washington DC, the locksmith must first remove the battery power. Doing this makes the process safe and lowers the risk of electrocution. Your car lock is an electronic lock, after all. After that’s done, the locksmith must remove the covers around the ignition switch.

First, they remove the top panel of the dashboard. There may be smaller accessory panels blocking screws that get removed as well. After that, they unscrew the bottom panel. Finally, the locksmith removes the casing around the steering wheel.

The exact method of removal depends on the car model. The locksmith may have to unplug wires before removing the ignition switch. Whatever the exact removal and installation process is, our locksmiths are trained and able to perform the task expertly.

Ignition switch replacement is complicated, so you should trust a trained locksmith to do it for you.

How To Take Care Of Your Ignition Switch

So how do ignition switches fail in the first place? And how do you stop the need for ignition switch replacement in Washington DC?

Ignition switches are sensitive to temperature and humidity, often leading to faulty accessories. Be careful if you live in a hot or humid environment, and keep the temperature in your car regulated while driving.

After a while, the switch will inevitably get worn out. Sometimes a broken ignition switch is old, and the contacts within are no longer working as they should. After all, you should use your ignition switch every time you drive. They’re liable to get damaged.

The springs sometimes break after repeated use or extreme temperatures, too. And broken springs mean an ignition switch that’s not going to work.

Take care of your vehicle and ensure it’s regularly serviced and maintained so you won’t need a Washington DC ignition switch replacement.

FAQs

Does a new ignition switch require a new key?

Yes. A locksmith can program a new set of car keys for you after ignition switch replacement in Washington DC. They can cut the car key to match your car locks. That way, you won’t be locked out of your car or the car’s trunk.

What can cause ignition switch problems?

Ignition switches get worn out over time. Extreme temperatures and high humidity can speed up the process.

How do you diagnose ignition problems?

If nothing happens when your key turns or it just doesn’t turn, there could be something wrong with your ignition cylinder or switch. As a whole, though, many different problems can present similarly, so it can be tricky to determine whether or not you’re experiencing ignition problems.

How can I start my car without a chip key?

You can’t start your car without a chip key, as they work like smart locks. If your key hasn’t gotten programmed to your vehicle, you’ve lost your key, or you have a faulty chip, call a locksmith to fix things for you.

Can a locksmith change an ignition lock cylinder?

Yes. Locksmiths can work with ignitions just as well as they can change other locks. Whether you need an ignition repair or an ignition rekey, a locksmith can help you out.