Modern car lock - ignition switch: types and features

The action that drivers perform to start the car is simple. They insert the key into the ignition switch, turn it. The dashboard lights up, the windshield wipers activate, the sound of the motor is heard. These are the precursors to starting to move. When the motor is ready to run, the driver begins to operate further machinery, and moves off. The car's engine is activated by the ignition switch, which turns it on or off the car's power grid.

The device of the car lock

The mechanism has such an uncomplicated design:

• A cylindrical lock with an individual key.
• A contact node connected to the lock by a wire.

The ignition switch has two main functions at the same time. The first option - it starts or shuts off the engine, connecting it to or disconnecting it from the power system. The second option is that the ignition lock releases or locks the steering wheel. Most cars manufactured today have both of these functions in the ignition lock.

Types of car locks

Ignition switches vary in their control design:

• To activate the motor, you have to use a key. The auto key also comes in several types.
• Keyless ignition switches have a special button that starts or stops the engine.

Most models use four-position keys. They have an anti-theft steering wheel locking system. Three-position systems were installed on older cars before the 1960s and they do not lock the steering wheel.

Ignition locks can be with minimal or advanced functionality. A useful option - protection from turning on the starter when the engine is running. Such protection will keep the starter from breaking, because if you move the key to «Starter» when the engine is active, it can break. A system that signals when the key is left in the lock also comes in handy.

Features of ignition locks

The ignition switch has rules of use, a certain sequence of switching modes. Each of them activates the processes in the car necessary to start the engine or stop it. The ignition switch can have 3, 4 or 5 positions:

• «Off» - domestic models indicate «0», «I», in newer vehicles this is not marked.
• «On» - «ON» or «3».
• «Starter» - «START» or «4».
• «Lock», «Parking» - «LOCK» or «0».
• «Optional equipment» - «Acc» or «2».

When the ignition key is turned to the «ON» position, all systems of the car that are powered by the electrical system are turned on, the dashboard lights up. The next time you turn it to «START» the engine is started. The key is held by the driver because there is no locking in the lock. When the engine has started, move to the «ON» position and leave it until the moment to stop the movement. Then the key is turned counter-clockwise to «ON» and waits for the engine to stop. Then turn it to the «LOCK» position. The steering wheel is locked. The key is removed and you can get out of the car.