What to Do, Ignition Cylinder Problems
Are you having car troubles? Have you figured out what’s wrong? It could be your ignition cylinder. Many people do not think about the importance of their ignition cylinder.
Unfortunately, this also causes it to get ignored most of the time. No wonder there are so many vehicles that have ignition cylinder problems.
Did you know that locksmiths can handle problems with your ignition cylinder? There are automotive locksmiths in Ellenwood, GA that provide this and many other automotive lock solutions. If you are not in or near Ellenwood, you may not be able to take advantage of our services, but we are sure that you can find a good locksmith in your area to help you.
Why Do You Have Ignition Cylinder Problems?
Feel like throwing your hands up in the air and asking why me? You’re not alone. Many people wonder what went wrong and what is causing them to face so many car troubles. You are not wrong for doing this. Many problems that you face with your vehicle could be avoided. You just have to know what to look for. Once you know the signs of trouble, you may be able to avoid it.
This includes problems with your ignition cylinder too. If you pay attention to what is going on with it, you may be able to detect many problems before they escalate. Of course, this could save a lot of money as well as the embarrassment of having your car shut down in the middle of traffic during rush hour. What a combination that is!
Here are a few tips that can help you to prevent some of the problems that occur with ignition cylinders.
- Pay attention to minor problems
A lot of serious problems that occur with your ignition cylinder will start with something that seems very minor and insignificant. The key to preventing an escalation of these problems is paying attention. If your key doesn’t turn as easily as it used to, you should notice that and get it checked out. If you realize that it’s hard to insert or remove the key, get that checked out too. No matter how small the problem seems, it is better to nip it in the bud before it becomes something much more significant and costly to repair or replace.
- Clean and maintain
A lot of car owners do not know this but ignition cylinders require cleaning too. Because it has such a small slit and it doesn’t seem to do much work, many people ignore it. But a clean and well-maintained ignition cylinder will give you longer service. Just make sure that you go about it the right way. You don’t need to clean it every day or even every week. But, occasionally, make sure you get rid of any dust, dirt or debris that gets built up inside or around the lock.
- Make sure your keys don’t get damaged
Using damaged keys can lead to the demise of your ignition cylinder. If your key gets damaged, make sure you use a new one to start your vehicle. Don’t rick causing significant damage to your ignition cylinder just because of you have a faulty key. Your locksmith can make or duplicate that key for you for much less than what it will cost to replace the ignition cylinder.
Common Problems with Ignition Cylinders
No matter why your ignition cylinder has decided to act crazy, there are some very common problems that occur with them. Some problems are more severe than others and may require more immediate attention. However, once you experience any of these problems, make sure you get that lock checked out.
- Stuck key
Has your key ever been stuck in the ignition? Sometimes we are quick to believe that our key is stuck, only to realize afterward that the steering wheel caused the problem or we were in the wrong gear. But, there are some occasions where the key is genuinely stuck because there is a problem with the ignition cylinder itself. Whether it is some debris in the lock or the lock has just gone haywire, your locksmith will be able to help in this situation.
- Broken key
Many times, when you break your key, it is because you were attempting to remove it from the ignition while it was stuck. If your key gets stuck, do not tug on it too hard. Gently wiggle it to see if you can get it loose. It can be much easier to deal with a stuck key than a broken one.
- Car takes a longer time to start
Your ignition cylinder is made to react promptly when you turn your key. You shouldn’t have to turn the key several times before you get a response from your car. Although it could be a sign that your battery is getting low, it is also a sign that your ignition cylinder is going bad. If you check your batteries and they are not running low, it means that you will soon have to replace that ignition cylinder.
- Car cannot start
Usually this occurs because you have ignored other warning signs that you were getting from your ignition cylinder. In most situations, it won’t just happen overnight. Nevertheless, this is one very frustrating problem. Can you imagine your car not starting when you are already running late for something that is very important? That is an inconvenience that no one wants to experience. Hence, why it is so important to pay attention to all the warning signs before it gets to this stage.
Can You Repair an Ignition Cylinder?
Sometimes, you may be able to repair damage to your ignition. However, the best thing to do is get it replaced. Don’t go to your mechanic! Locksmiths are the lock professionals and your ignition cylinder is a lock.
Let your local locksmith change that ignition cylinder for you.