Our vehicles are made up of various components and parts. There are some parts of your vehicle that you may be more familiar with than others. Sometimes, you know exactly what the problem is, but other times you may find yourself puzzled as to where to even begin if your vehicle is not functioning properly. One particular small, but very important part of your car can cause some problems if it is not working. This piece is known as your vehicle’s ignition cylinder or ignition switch.

Your ignition cylinder sits on the driver’s side of the vehicle, usually near or on the steering wheel column on the right-hand side. When you see your ignition cylinder in your car, you will likely only see the top of the cylinder itself. The cylinder is comprised of a flat, rounded top with a slot in the center where you insert your key, with the cylindrical part of the switch being kept out of sight within the steering wheel column. Because it is kept out of sight, many do not often think of their ignition cylinder as being the source of the problem when experiencing vehicle issues.

Potential ignition cylinder issues

There are several indicators and symptoms your vehicle will exhibit if your car’s ignition switch is not working properly. Remember not to panic if you are experiencing any of the following vehicle conditions and know that if your ignition cylinder is the problem, they can be easily fixed and replaced.

• Your car will not start

  There are several reasons why your car’s engine will not turn on. For example, you may experience engine, transmission or battery issues that could cause your vehicle to not respond when you insert and turn your key. Your ignition cylinder may also be responsible for this symptom. A faulty, damaged or worn-out ignition cylinder will not properly turn on the car. If you are unable to start your vehicle, consider that your ignition cylinder may be to blame.

• Your car stalls

  Similarly, if your car will turn on, but then stalls or eventually turns off, your ignition switch may be the source of the problem. If the cylinder is slipping, the will commonly cause the car to stall. The cylinder may be able to temporary hold the key in place and keep the engine on, but if it is worn out it may eventually fail while you are driving or trying to turn on your car and cause it to stall.

• Your car’s electronic system will not turn on

  If you are unable to get any response from your vehicle, this could also signal an issue with your car’s ignition cylinder. Typically, you can twist your key in the cylinder once or for half a turn and the electric panels in your car will light up and respond. You may be able to turn on your lights or your car’s radio without necessarily turning on the engine. If you fail to get a response, your ignition cylinder could be to blame.

How to solve ignition cylinder issues

If you are facing one of the above scenarios and you suspect that your ignition cylinder is to blame for your vehicle’s issues, there are a couple things that you can and should do to resolve the problem

1. Do not attempt to fix your car’s ignition cylinder on your own without an experienced technician.

   Fixing your car’s ignition cylinder, without the proper training or knowledge, could result in further damage or additional repairs. Your vehicle’s ignition switch helps keep your vehicle safe from theft, which is why it is mostly hidden within your vehicles steering column. Vehicle manufacturers place ignition cylinders in cars in a way that makes them difficult to tamper with on purpose.

2. Enlist the help of an experienced locksmith to look at your vehicle’s ignition cylinder.

   Skilled locksmiths know what to look for when it comes to the functionality of your car’s ignition switch. You will want to make sure to call a locksmith in your area if you are experiencing any of the typical symptoms of a worn-down ignition cylinder. A skilled locksmith will not only be able to inspect and repair your ignition switch, but they can also point to other possible issues that may be causing your problems. Having a technician perform a thorough assessment is highly recommended.

Finding the right locksmith

Knowing you are working with a locksmith you can trust is important. You will want to thoroughly vet your options for locksmiths in your area and ensure you are getting the best possible deal and service.