Looking for ignition switch replacement services near you?
Contact the Secure Locks team 24/7! We will arrive promptly to fix your broken ignition on the spot. Whether your lock needs repair or replacement, our experts will get you back on the road.
What Is Ignition Lock Cylinder
The ignition switch is an essential element of every automobile as it not only manages the engine’s starter system, but controls the power source for most electronic devices in the car.
It is a mechanical piece where the ignition key is inserted to start a vehicle. The ignition switch is one of the most critical parts of the vehicle. When it stops working other electrical components lose the ability to draw power from the battery. With a faulty ignition switch it is impossible to start the car or use any of its electrical components. Overall, it is a crucial component of the vehicle that is essential to maintain in order for your vehicle to operate properly.
Here are some reasons why ignition lock cylinder may fail:
Worn keys
If you have a key that is slightly damaged or visibly worn down, it can damage “wafers” (pins inside of ignition lock cylinder that correspond perfectly to the cuts of your key) inside the lock cylinder resulting in inability to turn the car key and preventing the ignition from unlocking
Worn/damaged wafers
The wafers themselves can wear down (so much so that in some cases the key can be removed while the engine is running), break or stick in a raised position, preventing the key from rotating.
Bent key
If the ignition lock cylinder is difficult to turn or the key cannot easily be inserted or pulled out, the key might be bent. Eventually this will cause wafer damage and ignition lock cylinder failure.
Having a problem with the ignition lock cylinder? Can’t turn the key in the car? Call our team today and we will get you back on the road in no time.
Repair or Replace?
Our goal is to repair a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder by replacing or smoothing wafers. We will remove the ignition lock cylinder, completely disassemble it, clean and lubricate it, and replace all of the wafers.
Unfortunately, not all ignition lock cylinders can be repaired. In cases where an ignition lock cylinder has to be replaced, we will remove the old ignition lock cylinder and replace it with a new one. Depending on the car make and model, brand new ignition may come with a brand new key. In some cases, we can re-pin it to work with your old key.
Ignition Switch Replacement FAQs
We have gathered some of the most common queries from our clients. If you can not find the answer to your question, get in touch with us anytime. We are always happy to help!
► Do you replace ignition on all makes and models?
Currently we are able to fix and replace ignition lock cylinders for most American and Japanese vehicles only. Please call us to find out whether your specific vehicle is covered.
► My car key is stuck in the ignition or does not turn. What’s the problem?
In most cases this could be an ignition lock cylinder malfunction or failure. The structure of the ignition cylinder contains wafers that become perfectly positioned when you insert your car key allowing it to turn and start the car. However, if one of the wafers cracks or becomes crooked, your key will no longer be a ‘perfect fit’. It will get stuck and/or your ignition will not turn. In this case we can either fix or replace the ignition depending on year, make, and model of the vehicle. Contact Secure Locks for professional locksmith needs and get back on the road quickly.
► When do I need the ignition switch replacement?
You might need this service when you notice one of the following issues: the key doesn’t turn as easy as it used to, it doesn’t turn at all, or it turns easily but the car doesn’t start. In any of these situations contact the experts who will help you diagnose and solve the problem.
► Do I have to replace the ignition switch? Can you repair it?
Everything depends on the severity of the problem. You might not need to replace the ignition switch completely. Before taking up any action, our experts carefully examine the problem and repair the broken detail whenever possible. If it turns out during the examination that the ignition switch cannot be fixed or that the cost of repair is higher than the cost of replacement, a locksmith will advise you properly.
► How much time does the ignition switch replacement take?
Provided that all the necessary details are available, the whole procedure will take an average of 1-2 hours. However, every case is individual, so it’s best to ask our technician after he diagnoses the problem.
► Is it better to take my car to the local mechanic or call a locksmith?
There are many benefits of choosing a locksmith over the mechanic. First and foremost, you do not need to tow your car anywhere. Our technician will come to the location of your vehicle and do the job on-site. Depending on the severity of the job, we may be able to do the job at night. If a car mechanic does the job for you they will provide you a brand new set of keys, which will be different from the key that works on the driver’s door lock. Secure Locks experts have an ability to key the new ignition to the same exact key as before (restrictions apply).
Looking For Ignition Switch Replacement Near Me?
The core values behind everything we do are the quality of service, attention to detail, reliability, and transparency. These are the things that helped us become one of the top providers of ignition replacement services in Chicago and suburbs. Whenever you find yourself in an emergency or looking for professional consultation from a licensed expert, reach out to Secure Locks. We are happy to help.
