Common ignition switch problems include overheating, failure of the dashboard lights, failure of the engine to crank and start, worn out wafers and failure of the key to come out of the switch. Other problems include rapid engine shut down and keyway damages.
The ignition switch overheats if terminals connecting high resistance wires are faulty. In older cars, the natural wear and tear on a vehicle can lead to ignition switch failure. Lack of clicks on the main relay causes the ignition switch to develop problems. A defective ignition switch or a fault in the start circuit causes failure of the engine to crank when the ignition switch turns on.
Faults in the anti-theft system, defects in the fuel pump circuit and a defective engine compute causes failure of the engine to start even when the ignition switch is on and the engine is cranking. If wafers are worn out or when they are packed with dirt, the ignition switch can develop problems.
A defective binding in the steering column lock or presence of one or more pins sticking inside the key lock cylinder causes failure of the key to come out of the ignition switch. Ignition switch problems develop when the wrong key is inserted in the ignition switch keyway, causing an irreparable damage to the switch when trying to pull it out.
