subject: Ignition Switch Removal - Few Important And Easy Steps [print this page] There are many functions of a car's ignition switch like it controls many of the accessories of a car and prevents the development of any fault in these accessories. Also it prevents the accessories of a car to go down the battery, if the car is parked for a long time. This switch also provides a connection between the battery of the car and starter and sends the signals when the key is rotated. By virtue of this device a powerful activity of electric signals is generated which helps in starting the car. The ignition switch is a broad term and it is used to refer two parts mainly, the lock cylinder and the electric switch which is found just behind the lock cylinder. In some vehicles, these two devices are grouped together in a single unit, however; in other cars, these units come separately. It is therefore; a good idea to see the manual of a car and to consult the car manufacturing company before purchasing.
It sometimes happens that the switch stops working and creates the hassle for the car's owner. If this thing happens then either the switch should be repaired or it is replaced. Repairing the ignition switch is not difficult and hence a person even can do this job by his own hands. In order to remove the switch, first unscrew the steering column covers, both upper and lower. The battery cable, which is for the negative charges flow, should also be pulled out from the terminal of the battery. The central cover should be opened and the steering wheel along with horn wire should be taken out. After doing this, it is necessary to un-plug the entire signals wires and then remove the windshield wiper. The mounting screws of the switch should be opened up and all the wires connected with the ignition switch should be disconnected.
The ignition switch then should be turned to locked position and after that lowering the retaining pin is required and then turn the switch to off position. This process will make the ignition cylinder free and once it will be done, then the switch should be turned to locked position again to take out the cylinder. The cylinder removed will go into new ignition switch and after fixing it inside the ignition switch it could be installed in the same manner inside the car. The other way round is to visit any workshop and ask the mechanic to remove the switch. A mechanic would take hardly 15-20 minutes in completing this job and he will install the new switch in the car engine.
