Signs You May Have an Ignition Cylinder Problem

There is a small, but important device that you use every day that is related to your vehicle. It is not your vehicle key, but rather, the part your key is placed in whenever you turn on your vehicle. This particular part is known as your vehicle’s ignition cylinder.

Ignition cylinders are mounted inside of your vehicle’s ignition switch and alert the vehicle when the proper key is inserted into the slot. The only visible part of your ignition cylinder is the round disk with the key slot in the center that sits next to your steering wheel. The rest of your ignition cylinder is tucked in the vehicle and held in place.

While you can count on your ignition cylinder rarely causing you any problems, you may occasionally run into some issues. There are certain signs you should be aware of that will indicate that there is a problem with your ignition cylinder. While the problems listed below can also be caused by other failing vehicle parts, it is important to keep in mind that your ignition cylinder may be to blame.

• Your Vehicle Refuses to Start

If your vehicle fails to turn on when you insert your key and attempt to start the car, it is possible that something may be wrong with your ignition cylinder. The wiring inside of the ignition cylinder is critical when it comes to alerting the car that the correct key is in place. If something is wrong with the wiring in your ignition cylinder, the vehicle may not start.

• Your Vehicle is Stalling

If your vehicle is stalling, this may also be because of the ignition cylinder. When ignition cylinders are starting to break, they may only work part of the time or for a few minutes after you turn your car on. If your car is stalling, you should stop driving it immediately and have a professional identify the source of the problem.

• Flickering Lights on the Dashboard

If the wiring in the ignition cylinder is loose or has become damaged, you may notice that the lights on the dashboard will flicker. While this is not a common symptom of ignition cylinder problem, it is known to happen. If it does occur, you will likely see this sign while the car is in motion.

• The Key Will Not Turn

If the ignition cylinder is jammed or bent in some way, you may not be able to turn your key at all. This symptom may present itself when the ignition cylinder is broken, but it is also common when the steering wheel locking mechanism has been activated. Luckily, there is a solution to this. Try turning the wheel back and forth with one hand while you attempt to turn the key with the other. Most of the time you will find that this does the trick and you will be able to turn your key again.

• You Cannot Insert Your Key into the Slot

This particular symptom may occur if there is something blocking the key’s pathway in the ignition cylinder. This can happen if the ignition cylinder has become damaged or there is some sort of debris in the slot itself. If you notice anything in your ignition cylinder, such as dirt and debris, you can carefully try and remove it. If you cannot visibly see any blockage, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has some sort of internal bend or break.

How to Fix Your ignition Cylinder Fast!

Because ignition cylinders are quite complicated to repair, you will need to hire an expert if suspect that yours is broken. Ignition cylinders are difficult to reach and require a certain skill set in order to be repaired properly. You do not want to attempt to repair your ignition cylinder on your own. This will only result in further damage to your vehicle and a more expensive bill in the long run.

Hiring a mobile locksmith is the best and most affordable way to have your ignition cylinder evaluated by a professional and repaired quickly. Mobile locksmiths are locksmiths that have training in ignition cylinder repairs and other vehicle lock and key issues. A mobile locksmith is an excellent service to rely on if you are stranded because of a broken ignition cylinder. Mobile locksmiths can travel to and from job locations to help vehicle drivers right on-site.

Instead of hiring an expensive towing service to take you to a mechanic, dealership, or other vehicle repair shop to replace your ignition cylinder, contact a mobile locksmith first. If you suspect that your ignition cylinder is to blame, you will receive the fastest and most affordable repair directly from a mobile locksmith.

The good thing about choosing to work with a mobile locksmith is the fact that most operate 24-hours a day. That means regardless of where or when you need your ignition cylinder repaired, you can receive the service you need fast. Contact a mobile locksmith in your area the next time you suspect that your ignition cylinder is faulty.