At one time or another, every vehicle owner has experienced the sinking feeling of not being able to get their car started. This can happen when we least expect it, but it is usually inconvenient regardless of the circumstances. Other frustrating symptoms vehicle owners experience include the car stalling or the car’s interior electrical system failing to light up or turn on. Most assume that these indicators point to the car’s battery. There are other possibilities, however, as to why your car may be acting up. Consider that your car is made up of a lot of different components. It is sometimes the case that even a small piece being out of place or faulty in your vehicle could cause it to stop running altogether.
This is especially true when it comes to your vehicle’s ignition cylinder. An ignition cylinder or switch as it is sometimes called, is a small but very important part of your car. Ignition cylinders sit embedded within the car’s steering wheel on the righthand side. They are round and cylinder shaped. The top part of the ignition cylinder is usually the only piece of the cylinder that is visible to the driver. The flat, silver circle on your steering wheel that encases the slot where you enter your car key is just one part of the ignition cylinder. The rest of the switch, or the cylinder-shaped body of the piece, is tucked inside the steering wheel. This helps to protect your vehicle against theft and unnecessary tampering with the ignition cylinder.
Common Problems
Your Vehicle Will Not Start
The most common indicator that something is wrong with your ignition cylinder is that your car will fail to turn on. You may be able to turn the key in the switch, but your car’s engine will not start. This could indicate that the cylinder has shifted out of place or has become knocked around in a way that prevents it from turning on the car. While not being able to start your car is alarming, it is likely that a simple fix of your cylinder will get you back on the road in no time.
Your Vehicle Starts, but Then Stalls
If you try and start your vehicle and it starts but then almost immediately stalls and shuts off, your ignition cylinder could be to blame. You may also experience it stalling while driving. Both of these symptoms could signal that the ignition cylinder is not functioning properly in your vehicle. Even though it may seem like a bigger problem, your cylinder could be the cause of your vehicle stalling.
Your Vehicle’s Interior Lights Will Not Turn On
Typically, with just one twist of your car key in the ignition slot, your car’s interior lights will turn on without necessarily turning on the engine. If you are unable to even get the car’s electrical system to work, this could definitely indicate that your ignition cylinder is not working properly. Just like if your car will not start or is stalling, it is possible the cylinder is slipping or broken.
What to do Next
A properly working ignition cylinder is important. If you find yourself in this situation, you will likely want to have it remedied as soon as possible. Some of us are anxious enough to repair our vehicles that we may even attempt to fix the problem ourselves. We may even believe this will save us time and money. While this may be true for certain aspects of your car, your ignition cylinder is not one of those projects. Know that your ignition cylinder is used every time your turn your vehicle on or off. It is not likely that any one specific incident caused your ignition switch to stop working.
To get your ignition cylinder repaired quickly, it is recommended that you have your vehicle looked at by a professional and certified locksmith. Your ignition cylinder serves several purposes. The trained eye of a locksmith is your best option to make sure that everything starts functioning properly with your vehicle again. Most locksmiths provide 24-hour emergency services, so worrying about saving time will not be an issue, since they will be able to drive to your location and assist you on-site. Ignition cylinders are also fairly inexpensive, so it will be worth your while to make sure a locksmith installs a new one or fixes your old cylinder. Trying to repair the cylinder yourself could results in a faulty repair that could potentially put you in danger.
Certified locksmiths know exactly how to get your cylinder back in proper working order. They will also be able to let you know if there are any other issues you need to worry about. You cannot go wrong with a trained professional to help you and take a closer look at your vehicle. Regardless of when and where you find your vehicle acting up, calling a locksmith is highly advised. Remember that a faulty ignition cylinder can make it easier for thieves to hotwire and steal your car. Getting it repaired properly is not just important for your vehicle to run smoothly, but also so that it remains secure.
Need Help with Your Ignition Cylinder?
If you are currently experiencing problems or suspect you may be having problems with your ignition cylinder, give the specialists at Marietta Locksmith, LLC a call today. They have been in the locksmithing business for years and proudly serve residents in and around Marietta, Georgia. They are highly skilled in all lock and key issues related to home, business, and automotive locks. They use only the finest quality brands for their installations and repairs. If you have any questions about your ignition cylinder repair or any other lock and key issue, Marietta Locksmith, LLC will have the answers you seek. If you live in Marietta, GA, give them a call now! You will be glad you trusted your safety and security to the finest locksmith experts in the area!