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There are many parts of a car that are vital to it working properly. It is important to make sure that all parts of a vehicle are maintained. An ignition switch is an example of a component that is important to keeping a car functioning properly.
Your ignition switch in your Audi may start to show signs of natural wear and tear, leading to the inability to start your car’s engine. There are several signs of a malfunctioning ignition switch to look out for, so you know when to get a new one. Let’s take a look at those common signs in this article.
WHAT IS AN IGNITION SWITCH?
It is helpful to first understand what an ignition switch is and what makes it so important to a vehicle. You can generally find the ignition switch on the steering column and behind the ignition lock cylinder. The ignition switch works with the ignition lock cylinder to turn your Audi on and to start the engine. Ignition switches generally have 3 positions: one that activates electrical accessories, one that powers the fuel system, and one that turns on the engine.
The ignition switch is used every time you turn your Audi on, which can occur many times throughout the day. An ignition switch will naturally wear down because it is used whenever you start your Audi. You may have a hard time starting a car when it begins to wear down, and eventually, you will be unable to start your vehicle. There are several signs of it wearing down that can help you know when to get it checked out or replaced. It is important to make sure that you are aware of the different signs of the ignition switch wearing out.
COMMON SIGNS OF A FAILING IGNITION SWITCH
One sign that the ignition switch is starting to wear out is if your Audi stalls while you are driving. This can occur when the ignition switch stops working while your engine is already running, which can make the fuel systems shut off. The ignition and fuel systems are important for your vehicle to run, which means the engine will stall without them. You may also be unable to restart your Audi for a short time after the engine stalls.
Having your engine stall can be dangerous, as you may be pulling out in front of traffic and need the engine to power your vehicle into a safe lane. So at the earliest hint of ignition switch failure, it is important to get it looked at.
Another possible sign of a malfunctioning ignition switch can be when you start your Audi and it stalls right away. This sign could indicate that there is a problem with the fuel and ignition systems. Your vehicle may work when the key is turned to the cranking position, but it will stop working once the key is turned to the on position. You would need to get your Audi checked out if you are experiencing this symptom and possibly replace the ignition switch.
Another sign that an ignition switch may not be working properly is if your Audi is having difficulties powering on the electrical accessories. The different electrical accessories in a car can be turned on when the key is in the accessory position or power position. If these accessories do not turn on when the key is in either position, then there can be a problem with the ignition switch. Your car may be driven without these accessories, but you should not go any farther than to the mechanic. The dangers of your vehicle stalling become higher at this point.
The ignition switch can be at fault for an engine not starting at all, because it is what sends power to vital parts of the engine. The vital parts of an engine that receives power from the ignition switch are the starter motor, engine controls, and ignition controls. The engine will not work if the ignition switch is not working properly.
WE CAN HELP WITH IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEMS
If you suspect your Audi is having problems with the ignition switch, be sure to bring your vehicle to Autobahn Automotive. We are an experienced team of technicians who use the latest technology to diagnose and repair your vehicle. We are located conveniently to San Antonio and Longhorn, TX. Bring your vehicle in today or call us for an appointment.