Ignition switch

In vehicles powered by internal combustion engines, the switch provides power to the starter solenoid and the ignition system components (including the engine control unit and ignition coil), and is frequently combined with the starter switch which activates the starter motor.

These mechanical switches remain common in modern vehicles, further combined with an immobiliser to only activate the switch functions when a transponder signal in the key is detected.

However, many new vehicles have been equipped with so-called "keyless" systems, which replace the key switch with a push button that also requires a transponder signal.

The ignition locking system may be sometimes bypassed by disconnecting the wiring to the switch and manipulating it directly; this is known as hotwiring.

Ignition switches are generally a simple repair that can be completed without much knowledge.