Your vehicle’s ignition is a mechanical part that you use every single time you drive. Over several years, the metal pins inside can start to wear down or get dirty. You might notice that the key feels a bit different when you slide it into the slot. Because of this, it is important to recognize the signs that your ignition is failing. Catching these problems early prevents you from getting stuck at the grocery store or at work. We want to help you understand what your car is trying to tell you today. We are the Best Automotive Locksmith Ottawa for expert ignition diagnostics and repairs.
Noticing Resistance When Turning the Key
One of the first signs of trouble is having to jiggle the key to make it turn. You might find that you have to pull the key out slightly to find the “sweet spot.” This indicates that the wafers inside the cylinder are no longer lining up correctly. If you keep forcing it, you will eventually bend the internal parts or snap the key. We recommend getting a professional checkup as soon as the key starts to feel sticky. A simple cleaning or a small repair can often fix the issue before it gets worse.
Sometimes the key might get stuck in the “on” position after the car has started. This is very dangerous because it can cause the starter motor to stay engaged and burn out. If the key does not spring back naturally, your ignition return spring is likely broken or weak. Our team can replace these small components to make your ignition feel brand new again. We have the experience to handle these delicate repairs for all types of domestic and foreign vehicles. Your safety on the road is our most important concern.
Dealing with Intermittent Electrical Issues
The ignition cylinder does more than just turn the engine over for your daily commute. It also acts as a master switch for your car’s lights, radio, and dashboard. If your dash lights flicker while you are driving, the ignition switch might be failing. This electrical component sits right behind the metal cylinder and can wear out over time. We can diagnose if the problem is mechanical or electrical using our professional testing tools. Our ignition repair services cover both types of issues to get you back on the road.
You might also notice that the car stalls suddenly while you are hitting a bump in the road. This can happen if the ignition switch is loose and loses contact for a split second. Our professional technicians can secure the housing or replace the faulty switch to keep your engine running. We understand how scary it is to have your car lose power while you are driving. That is why we take every ignition call very seriously and respond with urgency. We want to make sure your vehicle is reliable and safe for your family.
Why Heavy Keychains Damage Your Ignition
Many people carry a lot of keys, tools, and decorative items on their main keychain. The weight of these items pulls down on the ignition cylinder while you are driving. Over time, this constant downward force wears away at the metal pins and the housing. This is one of the leading causes of early ignition failure in older vehicles. We suggest keeping your car key on a separate ring to reduce the weight and pressure. It is a simple habit that can add years to the life of your vehicle’s locks.
Our team can also provide car key replacement if your key is the reason for the sticking. A worn-out key will not interact correctly with a perfectly good ignition cylinder. We use precision tools to cut keys back to their original factory specifications. This often solves the “sticky key” problem without needing to take the dashboard apart. We always look for the most cost-effective solution for our customers in the city. You can count on us for honest and professional advice every time you call.
Getting Your Ignition Fixed Before the Freeze
As we discussed before, cold weather makes every mechanical problem much worse for Ottawa drivers. If your ignition is already acting up in the fall, it will likely fail in the winter. We suggest getting a professional inspection before the first big drop in temperature happens. If you are worried about your ignition, please Contact Us. We can come to your location and give you a full report on your vehicle’s health. Our team is ready to help you stay ahead of any unexpected car troubles.
FAQ
Can I spray oil into my ignition to fix it?
No, never use oily sprays like WD-40 in your car’s ignition cylinder. It can ruin the electrical switch behind the lock and attract dirt that causes more jams.
Does a broken ignition mean I need a new car?
Not at all. We can usually repair or replace just the ignition cylinder for a fraction of the cost. Your car will be back to normal in no time with our help.
How long does an ignition repair usually take?
Most ignition repairs or replacements take about one to two hours to complete. We bring all the parts with us to ensure we finish the job in one visit.
