Having trouble starting your car or dealing with sudden stalls on the road?
These frustrating issues could point to a failing ignition switch.
The ignition switch powers up your vehicle’s ignition system, making this part essential for reliable performance. But when it starts acting up, a replacement is often your best bet.
Let’s take a detailed look at the average ignition switch replacement cost and some telltale signs that you need a replacement.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does an Ignition Switch Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Ignition Switch?
- 5 Surefire Signs You Need an Ignition Switch Replacement
- How Long Does an Ignition Switch Last?
- How to Replace an Ignition Switch
How Much Does an Ignition Switch Replacement Cost?
Here’s the cost of an ignition switch replacement to help you budget for this repair and avoid unexpected expenses:
A. Range
The average cost for an ignition switch replacement should fall between $200 and $310. This includes:
- Parts costs: $120 to $140
- Labor costs: $80 to $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Several parameters can influence the final bill for an ignition switch replacement. Let’s take a closer look:
- Make and model of your vehicle: Luxury vehicle brands often have more expensive, high-performance parts and may require specialized labor, increasing the overall cost.
- Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) vs. aftermarket parts: Aftermarket parts are often more affordable, while OEM parts, though more expensive, are made specifically to fit your vehicle model.
- Type of ignition switch: Ignition switches range from simple mechanical types to advanced push-button switches or smart key systems. Generally, the more sophisticated the switch, the higher the replacement cost.
- Additional repairs: If the mechanic finds issues with related components, such as the ignition cylinder or wiring, the overall cost will increase. For example, replacing the ignition cylinder can cost between $250 and $930.
Is It Worth Replacing the Ignition Switch?
Yes, replacing a faulty ignition switch is definitely worth it.
It’s a crucial part of your vehicle’s starting system, powering the starter motor and essential systems like the fuel pump, ignition coil, and spark plugs. Without a reliable switch, your vehicle might struggle to start or may stall unexpectedly, which is especially dangerous in heavy traffic or at high speeds.
A functioning ignition switch also helps prevent issues with electrical accessories, such as the radio or dashboard.
Bottomline: Replacing a faulty ignition switch promptly can help save you from unexpected breakdowns and more expensive repairs.
5 Surefire Signs You Need an Ignition Switch Replacement
Here are five symptoms that indicate your car may have ignition switch issues:
- Difficulty starting: A faulty switch disrupts power to your vehicle’s ignition system. So, if your car struggles to start or needs multiple attempts to get going, a failing ignition switch could be to blame.
- Stalling when driving: If left unchecked, a bad ignition switch can lose its electrical connection while you’re driving. This can cut power to essential components like the fuel pump or spark plugs, causing the vehicle to stall unexpectedly.
- Intermittent loss of accessories: An ignition switch problem can start affecting your vehicle’s electrical accessories, such as your interior lights and dashboard lights.
- No sound from the starter motor: There can be many reasons why your car won’t start (e.g., a dead battery). But if you notice a silent starter motor, it could suggest a bad ignition switch.
- Difficulty turning the key: If you’re struggling to turn the ignition key or can’t turn it at all, it may signal ignition switch issues. In some cases, it can also keep the engine running even after you’ve removed the key. However, this problem is more commonly associated with ignition lock cylinder issues.
How Long Does an Ignition Switch Last?
The ignition switch is designed to last thousands of key cycles and, ideally, the vehicle’s lifetime. However, its lifespan can depend on several factors, including:
- Wear and tear: The most common cause of failure is wear and tear due to frequent use. Constantly turning the ignition key or pressing the push-start ignition can lead to deterioration over time.
- Corrosion: Exposure to moisture or debris can corrode the ignition switch terminals, creating electrical connectivity issues.
- Damage from attempted theft: An attempted theft may physically damage the ignition switch, causing it to malfunction or fail entirely.
- Electrical surges or shorts: Power surges or electrical shorts, often caused by worn wiring or faulty connections, can damage the internal circuitry of the ignition switch. This is more common in electronic models.
- Heavy keychains: In vehicles with mechanical keys, excessively heavy keychains can put additional stress on the ignition switch, leading to premature failure.
How to Replace an Ignition Switch
Replacing an ignition switch is typically a quick process for a professional mechanic, usually taking an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the vehicle.
That said, the job is trickier than it looks because of built-in anti-theft measures that make ignition switches intentionally hard to remove and replace. So, tackling this on your own isn’t recommended, as poor installation can lead to expensive electrical issues or immobilize your car.
If you still wish to know, here’s a step-by-step outline of how a professional mechanic would handle the replacement:
- Remove the faulty switch: The mechanic will start by disconnecting the car battery and taking off the trim around the steering column to reach the ignition switch. Then, they’ll unscrew any fasteners securing the switch and carefully detach it.
- Install the new part: The mechanic will connect the new ignition switch to the wiring harness. If additional components, like sensors, need to be transferred from the old switch, they’ll carefully plug these to ensure proper fit and function before fully securing the new part.
- Test the ignition switch: The mechanic will reconnect the car battery, turn the ignition to ON, and start the engine. This is to ensure that the new switch starts the engine smoothly and functions correctly.
- Reassembly: Once the mechanic has confirmed the new ignition switch functions correctly, they’ll reinstall the steering column cover, trim pieces, and any other components. They’ll also double-check that all the connections, screws, and components are securely in place.
Get Expert Ignition Switch Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service
When the ignition switch fails, it can leave you stranded without warning, impacting your car’s reliability and your peace of mind. Spotting the warning signs early can save you the hassle of inconvenient breakdowns and costly repairs.
Worried about getting your car to a repair shop?
AutoNation Mobile Service has you covered.
Our mobile mechanics come right to your driveway, so you can get your ignition switch diagnosed and replaced without leaving your home. With straightforward, upfront pricing and a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty on all vehicle repairs, we make car maintenance easy and reliable.
Don’t let a faulty ignition switch spark any trouble, book your appointment online today.