How does a car ignition switch work? Ignition switch contact group: the main switching element of the on-board electrical system

Any happy owner of a car knows that nowadays “being on wheels” is not a cheap pleasure. Constantly creeping up gasoline prices, systematic technical inspections, taxes and well-known inspectors issuing fines. In addition to all this, unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, and parts can break, wear out, and exhibit manufacturing defects. Taking your car to a service center for every little thing is a very costly solution, so many motorists deal with breakdowns on their own. One of these breakdowns is a defect in the ignition switch. And it’s useful to know at least the basics about ignition switches if you decide to carry out minor repairs yourself.

Egnition lock

How it works - studying the ignition switch

The operation of the ignition switch is based on a mechanism consisting of a switch, which, when the key is turned in the lock, connects different types of contacts. As a rule, the ignition switch operates in several positions, each of which is responsible for a specific action when starting the car.

The first position is responsible for turning on the instruments on the panel and distributing power consumption throughout the car. The second position is responsible for starting the engine. Well, the last mode is the steering wheel lock. For each position, its own contact group of the ignition switch is activated to one degree or another.

Ignition failure is a fairly rare occurrence and not every motorist experiences this. However, if you can barely get to the nearest service station with a broken tire or a malfunctioning generator, you won’t get far with a broken lock. Let's figure out why this problem can arise and how to fix it yourself.

Breakdowns

Most often, the contact group fails, since it is made of plastic into which copper contacts are inserted; due to the flow of high currents and weak contact between the brackets, heating occurs. Due to high temperature, the plastic is deformed and damages the contact group.

The mechanical part fails much less often, but it also happens. It becomes damaged due to prolonged use, the springs in the lock sag, the lock becomes loose, which leads to its jamming or the ability to turn it with almost any key, which reduces the car’s protection to zero.

Design and principle of operation of the ignition switch contact group

The need to use a contact group in a car’s ignition system is dictated, first of all, by convenience, reliability of the connection and grouping of wires included in the electrical circuit. In addition, the use of a contact group as an intermediate link between the consumer and the ignition switch increases the degree of maintainability of the latter.

The design of the ignition switch installed on classic VAZ models is nothing more than a traditional electrical circuit breaker. The key in this design plays the role of a contact position regulator, capable of performing several standard contact closure options corresponding to certain vehicle operating modes:

• starting the power unit;
• connecting power to electrical devices;
• stopping the power plant

The connection of wires of the “socket-plug” type ensures high reliability of contact, and special fasteners in the plastic housing of the group act as an insulator (distributor) that prevents the occurrence of short circuits. Thus, the contact group of the ignition switch is nothing more than a device that connects all consumers into a single system via electrical wires (see figure).

The contact ignition system used on classic models of VAZ cars can be of two types: generator and battery . The difference between these systems is that one of them has an autonomous power source (battery), which allows the use of electrical appliances when the engine is not running.

The operation of the ignition switch contact group is based on the following principle. Turning the key closes the electrical circuit from the “-” terminal of the battery through the ignition coil to the “+” terminal of the battery. The current passing through the coil is converted into a high voltage pulse, generating a spark discharge at the spark plug electrode. Consequently, turning the key initiates the start of the car’s power unit. The inclusion of other electrical circuits that ensure the functioning of elements of the electrical equipment of the vehicle is carried out by installing the ignition key in the appropriate positions, causing the closure of certain groups of contacts.

Depending on the car model, the same key positions in the ignition switch may correspond to different groups of contacts, and, consequently, different operating modes of electrical equipment. An option is possible in which voltage is supplied at the moment the key is installed in the ignition switch, that is, the key itself closes the circuit that supplies the supply voltage. The functioning of anti-theft and alarm systems, devices that block car doors, etc. is organized in a similar way.

Has your car always needed a key?

Surely, you would like to quickly learn how the ignition switch works, but more on that a little later.

Let's start, as always, with a short excursion into history and theory. Why do we turn the key in this device?

The main reason is the desire to start the engine, which starts working with the help of a starter. It is to this device that electric current is supplied through the 3Z, like through a gate, from the battery.

At the dawn of the automobile industry, starters did not exist, so there was no need for ignition switches. The engine was started manually with a special metal pin, and, of course, such a process could hardly be called convenient and easy.

By the way, as an alternative, this method of starting the power unit was available on domestic cars almost until the 90s of the last century.

As for electric starters, they began to appear at the beginning of the twentieth century, and with them ignition switches. Initially, the keys to them were just a formality, making it possible to turn the ignition switch, but as the number of vehicles grew, the number of people who liked to “ride” in other people’s cars also grew.

Therefore, quite soon, ignition switches became not only part of the car’s starting system, but also an anti-theft element.

Ignition switch: circuit, device, operation

In order to understand how it works, you need to understand what the ignition switch consists of. Like any other contact electrical device, it has a mechanism that connects and disconnects the electrical wiring circuit. In addition to turning the ignition off, the lock also performs some functions that are activated when you turn the key:

• in position No. 1 - power is supplied to the instrument panel and various electronic devices;
• in position No. 2 - the engine is started;
• in position No. 3 - the steering wheel is locked.

Each of these key positions uses its own ignition switch contact group.

The ignition switch does not break down as often as other parts of the car's electrical equipment. If the ignition system lock is faulty, you can determine the cause yourself.

Wiring sequence

When the ignition switch is turned on, the starter does not turn. Why does the starter not respond to turning the ignition key? It also happens

If you are lucky and have a special chip for connecting the lock, everything is simple. But if such an element is missing, then the wiring will have to be connected one by one. To do this, you need to take the terminal block of the inserted lock so that one double-type terminal is located on the right and stands vertically. The top of this terminal should have black wire attached to it.

Next, you should work in the direction of movement of the clock hand. The pink wire will be connected second, followed by blue, brown, and the whole thing will be completed by a red wire. It should be noted that on the rear block of the lock near the terminals there are numbers, each of which corresponds to a specific wire.

Remember that the bottom area of ​​the double view terminal must be left empty. So, the contacts are connected.

How it works

The group of contacts in the ignition switch is a system for connecting wires in the required sequence and order, for this there is a start, ignition and parking position. This ensures correct distribution of on-board voltage from the current source, which in a car is the battery, to consumers. There are many of them in a modern vehicle, these include ignition and engine starting systems, lighting, alarm systems, control, monitoring, and security systems.

The contact group works together with the ignition switch; in some cases, when the ignition switch cylinder is broken, there are options for it to work independently, or an additional start button is installed. Below is shown how the ignition switch of a VAZ 2101-2107 works.

1. Anti-theft rod; 2. Product body; 3. Shaft with splines for turning the contact group; 4. Disk with contacts; 5. Bushing with contacts; 6. Contact connector.

The letter “a” shows the guide for correct assembly of the lock components. As can be seen from the figure, the device circuit is compared with a conventional electrical contact breaker. The key in it acts as a kind of regulator of the order of commutation of certain circuits. The first ignition switching devices were made as one piece, this simplified and reduced the cost of their production, but there was one significant drawback. If the contacts suddenly burned, broke, or oxidized, the lock had to be completely replaced. Therefore, a design for an easily replaceable contact group was developed.

Self-repair instructions

Let's consider the option of repair due to poor contacts, as well as due to breakage of the cylinder. Repair of the ignition switch is most often needed for this reason.

First, check the battery by disconnecting the negative terminal. At the same time, remove the lower casing from the steering column.

Disconnect the contact group and test the wires using an ohmmeter. Entire contacts show zero resistance; otherwise, the device must be replaced. If the damage is minor, you do not need to completely change the device; just change the cylinder or contact group. The kit is sold in the form of a box with terminals.

The cylinder is sold together with a new set of keys that are needed to turn it. When replacing the ignition lock cylinder, you should remember that you will have to use the old key for the trunk of the car. If this is unacceptable, purchase an additional set of larvae for the luggage compartment.

Replacing the ignition lock cylinder will require more time from the technician, but will allow you to save on purchasing a whole part. To replace the device, unscrew the screw connecting the two parts of the lock body. The body will split, and in one of the parts there will be a larva that can be taken out.

Keep in mind that the new cylinder will not contain such things as a return spring and a locking element. Transfer these parts from your old device. The return spring may not be immediately noticed, since it is located at the bottom of the part, be careful!

Fix the new cylinder in the lock shell in the same way as the old one. Screw the device part. Check the functionality of the ignition switch assembly.

A few words about the principle of operation

Modern cars and trucks have a battery ignition system that uses the battery as the power source. When you turn the key, power supply voltage is supplied to the vehicle’s instrument panel, electronic control unit and other systems of the vehicle’s electrical circuit. A further turn of the key makes a connection through an additional starter relay to start the engine.

The figure shows the electrical circuit of the ignition switch, which shows the principle of operation of the switch

Almost all switching of consumers is carried out by the contact group of the lock. Different models of machines have switches that differ from each other in their operating algorithm. There are models in which only installing the key supplies voltage to individual systems. Recently, the start button has become widespread, as well as the stop button. This installation allows you to use it instead of a lock, the power unit is started and at the same time the starting circuit is unloaded. The button used should not have a fixed on position.

The same start button is often installed by car owners themselves, especially those who do not have an unloading relay. Typically, a button with the start function has powerful power contacts; only they can relieve the contact group from the starting current of the starter solenoid relay. Switching circuits with high current requires the use of high-quality materials to produce a device that can withstand high temperatures from heating and have good insulating qualities.

Scheme

Typically, connecting a lock does not involve much difficulty. The scheme is quite simple and practically does not differ depending on the brand of car. If each wire is connected separately, remember the following points:

What you should also pay attention to:

• INT – black wire;
• terminal 15 – blue wire with a black stripe;
• terminal 30 – pink wire, and at 30/1 – brown;
• terminal 50 – red wire that ensures the starter operates.

What you need to know about node malfunctions

They come in two varieties:

• Damage to the lock or its cylinder;
• The ignition switch contact group has failed.

Switch failure is quite a rare occurrence for “branded” parts, which cannot be said about “consumer goods” from China or Hong Kong, which can bring surprises to car owners. We will not consider problems with switches; we will focus on faults of the switching unit. Several factors also indicate breakdowns:

1. The machine's electrical consumers do not turn on;
2. The engine starting system does not work.

In both cases, to make a final decision on how to fix the breakdown, you should check the serviceability of the unit. This is not difficult to do if you have a car tester and retain your knowledge of electrical engineering. To check, you need an electrical diagram of the lock, which today can be easily found on the Internet. If all this is available, start working.

The photo shows the switching group testing element.

To carry out this “undertaking” you need to have access to its contacts or connector with wires. In some cases, you will have to dismantle the device. This applies to a greater extent to cars of the Zhiguli family of cars. The key is moved to the first position, and the device measures the resistance of the corresponding contacts; the lock diagram will tell you about this. Their resistance should be close to zero. Next, you should take a measurement in the second position of the key. In the stop position, power should be supplied to the car radio, clock and other devices. The diagram will also show all this. If the device readings approach infinity, the group will have to be replaced.

Remember! Cleaning the contacts with fine sandpaper will restore operation in the short term.

During Soviet times, drivers used silver-coated coins to restore contacts; this solved the problem for some time. You can still apply this old-fashioned method today. The contact group of the lock is a delicate thing, so you should treat it with caution.

A few more words about these devices

For several decades now, locks have been combined with car steering wheel locking devices. This is done to protect against vehicle theft. These systems are also constantly being improved, and the Barracuda complex can serve as an example of such modernization. Blockers of this type are intended for use on VAZ, GAZ, Moskvich cars. The application does not provide a complete guarantee of protection against theft, but it strongly counteracts it. According to many experts, systems such as “Barracuda” are among the most effective devices.

The kit includes a start button, which has become very fashionable lately among car enthusiasts. The casing of the device is made of high-quality steel, which provides additional protection to the standard product in the event of a forceful attempt to break the lock. The Barracuda lock is activated immediately after the key is turned to the stop position; the locking mechanism is developed specifically for the car model.

The photo shows a powerful protective casing of the device.

The mechanical locking of the Barracuda has nothing to do with the electronic security systems and the state of charge of the battery. The start button can be installed anywhere at the request of the car owner, the installation diagram of the device is simple, assembly time will take about 15 minutes. Protection is provided against possible drilling of fasteners and the lock cylinder pin.

Lockers of this system are produced for the gear shift lever. The installation scheme provides for the use of standard vehicle seats. No welding or other additional fitting work is required. Its installation does not spoil the appearance of the interior, is easy to maintain and convenient to use.

How to extend service life

This is easy to do on those cars where there are no relays for the start or stop position. Installing auxiliary relays yourself helps with this.

The figure shows the connection diagram. Typically, such relays are mounted in circuits “30” and “15” of the lock, which is almost the same for all models. The exception will be the Moskvich and Volga cars, the switches of which are designed slightly differently. 30 Amp relays from the VAZ 2108 or 50 Amp relays from the VAZ 2110 are suitable as auxiliary relays. In “old” models, start buttons are mainly used. In a similar way, the circuit is unloaded along the circuit “30” - “50”. There are options for homemade modernization, when instead of one relay, two devices are installed in a parallel circuit. The circuit becomes somewhat more complicated, but the service life of the relay is extended.

Installing the "Start" button

Some VAZ 2106 owners install a button for ease of starting the engine. It is connected via the starter power circuit to the break in the red wire, which goes to terminal 50 of the ignition switch. In this case, the engine starts as follows:

1. The key is inserted into the lock.
2. Turn it to position I.
3. The starter is started by pressing the button.
4. When the engine starts, the button is released.

To stop the power unit, you must turn the key counterclockwise. A slightly different option for connecting the button is also possible, so that with its help you can not only start the engine, but also turn it off. For these purposes you will need the following parts:

• headlight relay RS 711;
• starter relay 113.3747–10 or 90.3747–10.

In order to turn off the engine, the button must be connected in a slightly different way.

According to the diagram, when the button is pressed, power is supplied to the headlight relay, and after the contacts are closed, to the starter. When starting the power unit, the button is released, thereby opening the contacts of the starter relay and breaking its power circuit. If you press the button again, the contacts of the switching device open, the ignition circuit is broken and engine operation stops. The second option for using the button is called “Start-Stop”.

Even a car owner who is encountering such a problem for the first time can replace or repair the ignition switch on a VAZ 2106. To carry out the work you will need a minimum of tools and following step-by-step instructions. The main thing is to connect the wiring to the lock in accordance with the diagram.

Location

For most domestic and foreign cars, the ignition switch is structurally located in the steering column housing or under the panel of technical sensors. The contact group is located behind the plane of the ignition key cylinder.

It is typical for many vehicles to install the ignition switch on the right or left side of the steering column. Sometimes there are foreign car models where the lock and key are located on the car's dashboard or navigation panel.

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Purpose of the element

The ignition switch, otherwise called the ignition switch, is a switching element that connects the engine and electrics of a car or motorcycle. Its main functions are:

• Turning on the starter for a short time;
• Prompt connection or disconnection of the vehicle's electrical system from the battery or generator (immediately after starting);
• Setting up the operation of the radio, anti-theft system or other current-consuming devices when the engine is not running;
• Activating or disconnecting the car ignition from the power source.

As you can see, the ignition switch is needed not only so that the vehicle can move off, but also to ensure the operation of the electrical network of the vehicle as a whole, as well as protection against theft. Moreover, all ignition switches have the same operating principle and are not structurally very different from each other. It's all about unification - one verified design was once accepted as a basis, and in its likeness devices similar in operating principle are created. But there are nevertheless several types of ignition switches.

Characteristics of a contact group

To begin with, we suggest finding out why an ignition switch contact group is needed, what its structure is and how it works.

Purpose and functions

In essence, KGZZ is used to ensure the connection of all electrical circuits of the vehicle without exception. That is, when the driver turns the key in the lock, the KGZZ closes the contacts, thus allowing the use of all electrical devices without exception.

Device

Diagram of the lock The ignition switch itself is a simple circuit breaker.
When you turn the key, the contacts are adjusted, making it possible to start the engine, power the equipment, and also stop the power unit. If you disassemble the body of the lock itself, you will see that the device itself is located inside it, as well as a large number of wires connected to each other. The wires to the lock come from the battery. The contact group of the ignition switch itself goes directly to the connection point of these electrical devices. To prevent short circuits and to delimit the contact elements themselves, the KGZZ is mounted in a plastic case.

Principle of operation

An automobile ignition system can be either battery-based or generator-based. Their fundamental difference is that battery ignition is equipped with an autonomous power source; accordingly, all electrical equipment can be turned on without starting the engine. As for the generator system, in this case, activation of electrical equipment is possible only after starting the engine.

When the driver turns the key in the lock, the electrical circuit contacts are closed from the negative terminal on the battery to the coil. At the same time, voltage begins to flow through the wiring to the lock, which is supplied to the coil through contacts, after which it returns to the positive output of the battery.

At the moment when the voltage passes through the coil, a very high voltage is generated in it, which is subsequently transmitted to the spark plugs. Ultimately, the contacts close and the engine starts. In addition to the ignition circuit itself, there are other electrical circuits in the car that conduct voltage from the key to electrical appliances. Each of the wires is responsible for connecting the contacts to each other (the author of the video is the Auto Repair and Maintenance channel).

Basic faults

Briefly about the reasons why repair of the ignition switch contact group may be required:

1. Overloading of the device, which may be due to the installation of additional devices of increased power, as a result of which a higher voltage will pass through the KGZZ. For some time, the device can cope with this current, but over time, carbon deposits will begin to form on it. It should be noted that this deposit, as a rule, appears precisely inside the contact, and not on its surface, then the only way out is to replace the contact group. To prevent this problem, all additional devices must be connected via fuses or relays.
2. Short circuit in the electrical network. If a short circuit occurs, this may also cause high power voltage to pass through the CGZZ, which again will cause its failure.
3. Many motorists who changed the KGZZ faced the problem of abrasion of the tracks, as well as the contacts themselves. This problem usually occurs as a result of wear and tear on the lock, but in some cases the cause may be faulty.
4. Mechanical failure of contact elements, as well as other components of the group.
5. Overheating of the device, which can lead to damage to the design of the CGZZ. Overheating, as a rule, also occurs as a result of increased load on the device. When working in conditions of elevated temperatures, the tracks may move or even break (video author - AlexAvtoKhlam).

Changing the lock yourself

Knowing what is included in the circuit, which serves as an analogue of a crooked key, we can say that you can handle it. After all, the principle is completely simple. Therefore, if there are problems with the springs or core, you should always just open the cover and that’s it! The rest is very simple. You can replace either individual parts or the entire unit. The main thing to remember is that before the starter it was much more difficult, but the meaning of its functioning remained the same.

What could be the causes of breakdowns?

1. The wires are worn out, which means the cable needs to be replaced.
2. The contact in the connector circuit was broken, it was burnt and oxidized.
3. The cylinder itself, where the key is inserted, has broken.
4. The keys were lost, which happens most often.

It is for these four reasons that you will have to lift the panel cover and deal with the core, springs and wires. And this is a complex process. It requires close attention, knowledge and caution.

• First, you will need to disconnect the battery to avoid electrocution. To do this, remove the terminal that has a negative contact.
• Now remove the cover that is located below the steering wheel.
• You will also need to turn off all electrical appliances.

The lock is not that easy to unscrew. Once the cover has been removed, the hard part begins.

• Take a hammer or chisel and try to knock the lock out of its hole. Such bolts in the form of creases sit very tightly in their sockets.
• When the lock is replaced, it will be possible to put new bolts on the cover, which are easier to remove in case of a new need to replace the cylinder.

Replacing the lock contact group

The ignition switch contact group is an element exposed to high temperatures, especially when the vehicle’s power unit is started. This happens as a result of an increase in the temperature of the electrical wire conductor (due to sudden voltage surges), which provokes burnout of the insulating material of the contact group.

Installing an additional unloading relay, which partially removes the load when the engine starts, can protect the contact group from the occurrence of the defect described above. Nevertheless, this phenomenon is quite common among the VAZ “classics”. And the only solution to the problem that guarantees further uninterrupted operation of the ignition system is to replace the contact group .

The process of replacing a contact group is quite simple, and this applies equally to the technical features of the procedure, and to the provision of tools and repair skills. The main point that requires some attention and scrupulousness is compliance with the contact connection diagram. It must be absolutely identical to the old one. In addition, information about the connection diagram is located in the vehicle's operating instructions.

So, we change the burnt-out contact group of the ignition switch:

• Disconnect the battery terminals.
• Unscrew the screws securing the plastic steering column cover and remove it.
• Unscrew the screws (2 pieces) securing the lock.
• We set the key in the ignition switch to position “0”, which ensures that the anti-theft device is turned off.
• When disconnecting the lock from the network, mark the wire contacts.
• Having removed the retaining ring, disconnect the contact group from the lock and replace it.
• Assembling and installing the lock in its original place is performed in the reverse order to that described above.

The procedure for disassembling the lock

Before starting work, you should prepare the necessary set of tools. The kit will come in handy with a Phillips screwdriver, a set of keys, a narrow chisel or punch, and round nose pliers with curved ends for gripping. Provide yourself with easy access to the lock and adequate lighting.

At the initial stage, the entire device assembly is removed. The protective element of the plastic casing is sequentially dismantled, the lock is unscrewed and pulled out. To avoid errors during reassembly, mark the installation location and purpose of each wire. Take the time to take a legible photo.

Be sure to evaluate the terminal block with the wires inserted. If cracks or traces of melting are detected, feel free to remove each wire from its socket and replace it with a new part.

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There is no clear answer to the question of how to remove the ignition switch contact group. It all depends on the design features of the device. Let's consider dismantling the required element using the example of the VAZ model of the 10th family:

1. Disconnect the backlight wires if present.
2. Disconnect the decorative cover at the top of the device by unlatching the latches around the perimeter.
3. Disconnect the contact group. Usually the fastening is also carried out in the form of several clamps.

After removing the part, you should examine the condition of the contacts. Minor oxidation can be removed by simply sanding with medium-sized sandpaper. Do not rush to reassemble. Try to simulate a launch right on the scale.

If burnt contacts are detected or if it is impossible to identify a visible defect, the part should be replaced without regret.

When performing reassembly, consider the sequence of operations. A well-installed lock should not only perform its functions, but also not move with each turn of the key. Please pay attention to the following points:

• the mounting bolts are firmly tightened only if the outer part under the steering wheel is properly installed;
• make a test rotation of the steering wheel without a key to make sure that the locking device is working properly;
• When selecting bolts, do not forget about the ease of access to the lock for potential burglars.

When completing all work and connecting the wires, check that the harness is securely fastened. If everything is done correctly, the first test run will allow you to hear the rustling sound of a running engine.

Checking the functionality of the ignition switch contact group

Diagnosis of the suitability of the ignition switch contact group is carried out with a device - a multimeter. The contacts are checked for changes in resistance.

Sequence of work

The performance of the part is checked in the following sequence.

1. Disconnect the battery (you can only remove the “-” terminal).
2. Disconnect the contacts of the wire block.
3. The lock connectors are checked in different positions (pairs of contacts of the lower and upper rows).

Multimeter readings

When checking with a multimeter, we look for the following signs and readings of the device:

1. Impossibility of measurement (infinity sign) - replacement of the contact group without the possibility of manipulation and repair.
2. Fluctuations in the sensor needle (numbers on the screen) indicate intermittent contact. It will be necessary to check the terminals for tight connections and clean them from oxidation.
3. Signs of a malfunction of the ignition switch contact group are zero readings on the multimeter.
4. The next stage of troubleshooting is checking the electrical wiring for integrity.

You can check the functionality of wiring without a contact group by directly connecting pairs of corresponding wires. If the starter cranks and the engine starts, the circuit line from the battery to the spark plugs is fully functional, and the problem lies in the ignition switch system.

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Operating principle

So, the ignition switch on the VAZ-2101 is an element located in the cabin near the steering column. The entire lock structure is hidden under the decorative trims of the column, so from the driver's side the lock looks like a large round washer with a slot in the center.

Label “0” is the position in which all electrical appliances powered by the lock are disconnected from power. It should be noted that some of the equipment (interior lighting, brake light, cigarette lighter) do not depend on the position of the key in the lock; they are constantly powered by the battery. In this position the key can be removed from the lock.

Mark “I” - the position of the lock at which electricity is supplied to the on-board network. In this position, control and measuring instruments, light and sound alarms and headlights, the ignition system and a number of other electrical appliances receive power. This position is fixed, and when moving the key to it, it is not necessary to hold it.

Mark “II” is the position at which voltage begins to be supplied to the starter to start the engine. This position is not fixed, that is, the driver moves the key to this position and holds it to start the engine. After starting, the key is released and, under the action of a spring, it returns to position “I”.

Position “III” is parking. In this position, all electrical appliances are de-energized, and a lock is inserted into the groove of the steering column, which is an anti-theft device for the car.

It should be noted that the lock positions do not follow each other. So, to move the key to positions “I” and “II”, it must be rotated clockwise from “0”. And to set position “III”, the key is turned counterclockwise from “0”.

What kind of damage can occur in the ignition switch?

As mentioned above, practice shows that breakdowns are common to both parts of the lock and often require replacement of one or the other half. Sometimes VAZ 2106 ignition coils can fail

When servicing these elements, you need to know what a non-contact ignition circuit is, and after that you need to disconnect the negative terminal on the battery, except if you check the presence of voltage at consumers.

1. Mechanical failure

The most common malfunction of the mechanical part of the locking system is a tight turn of the key; if the connection problem is not solved in time, the key will jam in the lock or break. As a result, you will have to change the entire lock, and such a replacement will require large expenses.

Factory ignition switches from VAZ 2106 cars very rarely break down in this way; such a malfunction is typical for Chinese spare parts, because the cost of the analogue is an order of magnitude lower. Analogs cannot be repaired, unlike spare parts from the LADA automobile plant.

Pinout of lock VAZ-2108, VAZ-2109, VAZ-21099

Pinout according to the old type

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Pinout of the VAZ-2109 ignition switch with unloading relay:

1. comes +12V in position I, II, III (parking)
2. comes +12V in position I, II, III (parking)
3. comes +12V in position III (parking)
4. position I, +12V goes out after turning on the ignition (contact 15/2), disappears at start (II);
5. position I, +12V goes to the starter (pin 50);
6. position I, +12V goes away after turning on the ignition (pin 15), does not disappear when starting II;
7. +12V comes from the battery (pin 30);
8. comes +12V constantly.

New pinout type

Pinout of the new VAZ-2109 ignition switch:

1. comes +12V constantly
2. comes +12V constantly
3. +12V arrives after turning on the ignition (pin 15), does not disappear when starting II;
4. +12V arrives after turning on the ignition (contact 15/2), disappears at start (II);
5. position I, +12V goes to the starter (pin 50);
6. +12V arrives after turning on the ignition (pin 15), does not disappear when starting II;
7. +12V comes from the battery (pin 30);
8. comes +12V constantly.

Ignition switch device

The design of the ignition switch depends on the car model. There are two types: with a key and without a key. When cars first began their development, their ignition locks did not have keys. Similar designs were used until the mid-twentieth century, and then they were replaced by conventional models that use a key.

Despite the fact that now there is a revival of push-button ignition locks, the most common type of design remains where the use of a key is required. The most convenient variation of the model is considered to be a flip key.

The design of ignition switches is similar for most passenger cars. The part consists of two main parts. The mechanical one has a cylinder into which the car owner inserts the ignition key. It provides protection against theft. The electrical one comes from the contact unit.

The key has a cylindrical lock, which is responsible for both turning the contact unit and locking the steering wheel. All parts are sequentially connected to each other.

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The part is the part into which the key is inserted to select the desired circuit connection. It is installed in a cylindrical spring, one of the ends of which is fixed to the lock body. The cylinder lock assumes automatic return of the lock in case of unsuccessful start. The part is connected to the leash.

Leash

The part resembles a wide cylinder with a through channel. There are balls at the ends of the radial channel, and a spring is placed between them. The design of the part assumes that the spring allows the balls to fall into the holes on the lock body. Thus, the leash allows you to rotate the contact unit disk and also guarantees the lock’s fixation.

Contact node

The part consists of a contact disk with plates (through which current passes), as well as a stationary block. The last element has about six contacts with leads on the reverse side. Typically, contact plates with a single connector are used.

contact Group

This mechanism is one of the most important parts of the ignition switch, since it is the connecting link between all other components.
The mechanism closes the contacts of the electrical wires in the sequence required for a certain operating mode, which ensures the distribution of current between the devices of the machine. The position of the rotating parts of the contact group corresponds to the position of the key in the lock. The contact group is necessary for more convenient connection and grouping of vehicle electrical networks. The part is indispensable in terms of practicality: using a contact group saves the car owner time and money. The fact is that connecting all contacts directly is extremely inconvenient. If it was necessary to replace any element, the driver would have to climb into the lock body and separately solder each contact. The contact group solves this problem, and its replacement is cheaper.

The key circuit is closed while turning, and electricity rapidly moves from the negative terminal through the wire system, and then from the lock contacts to the induction coil. It generates additional voltage and transmits it to the spark plug. The current then returns to the positive terminal of the battery.

As a result of many years of friction, the elements of the group can wear down, which leads to overheating and burnt contacts. Due to such malfunctions, interruptions in the operation of a variety of vehicle systems are possible. Often, replacing a contact group successfully solves the problem of failure of several systems at once.

The main components of the castle

Before describing the ignition switch device, you need to know that this unit did not appear in the car right away. Since it is most often used to start the starter, which was not introduced into the car design in the early stages. The first cars were started by a curved lever inserted into the front of the car, which directly rotated the crankshaft.

The ignition switch is usually called the basic switching element that provides power directly to the electrical systems and helps to minimize battery discharge while parking or parking a vehicle.

Most lock models are structurally divided into mechanical and electrical units. The mechanical block includes the lock cylinder. This cylindrical device hides a mechanical “secret” consisting of cylinders and springs arranged in a certain order. This ensures that a unique key is required for a particular lock.

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The second block is equipped with a group of electrical contacts. Their connection to each other is carried out according to a certain algorithm, which depends on how much the key is turned.

The built-in lock, in addition to rotating the module with contacts, helps lock the steering wheel . This operation involves a locking plug installed in the structure. When installed at the extreme initial point, it moves out of the lock body and is fixed in a special groove located on the steering column. In popular VAZ models, the factory installs the following types of locks:

• KZ-813;
• 2108-3704005-40.

The design of the ignition switch requires the presence of several required parts. The main components of the nodes are the elements:

• casing;
• bracket;
• contact node;
• "secret" of the castle;
• shell;
• pin retainer.

The secret interacts rigidly with the cable and is mounted inside a large spring. The first end of the spring is fixed on the lock body, and the second - on the cylinder. Thanks to the built-in spring, the lock spontaneously returns to its original position.

The design of the lock is designed both for rotation and for fixing it in any position. For this case, the cylindrical driver is equipped with a through radial channel. It has spring-loaded balls on both sides. After turning at a certain angle, the balls fall into the hole, which allows you to fix the structure in this position.

The contact unit developed by the engineers includes two elements: a static block with connecting contacts installed on it and a rotating disk with mounted plates. Electricity is released through the plates when the driver turns the key. Typically there are six or more contacts on the block with outputs to the rear side. Most locks produced today are equipped with blade contacts with a single connector. The group of contacts included in the lock and located inside the case is designed to trigger the following components:

• electric starter;
• ignition system;
• signaling devices.

Monitoring the performance of the group is usually carried out with a plug-in test lamp. However, before this operation, experts recommend testing the cables suitable for the connector for possible damage. If insulation problems are identified, they must be corrected.

Removing a faulty device

We take out the lock and disconnect the wires from the terminals. It is very important that the connection remains unchanged. Press the latch and install the lock. Using a screwdriver, unscrew the 5 screws of the steering column switch housing.

The mechanical part is installed directly in the ignition switch itself. Alternately move the wires from the previous part, choosing the correct contacts. The design of the electronic ignition on a VAZ consists of two elements: The electrical part is a wire terminal fixed at the bottom of the lock with a locking clip. In this case, it is important to remember that the connection diagram plays a huge role, and you should not mix up the wires.

Therefore, the key closes the contacts of the ignition circuit, thereby starting the car engine. Place the steering column cover in place and secure the two parts together.

And finally...

To summarize, let's say that for the ignition to work correctly, you need to use the original key, try not to lose it, and also remember that the starter serves as the element that replaces the crooked key. There are four main reasons why you might need to replace your lock, but the most common is losing your keys. Remember that it changes when the power is turned off.

It is difficult to imagine a modern car or motorcycle without one small part that provides protection and control of the vehicle - the ignition switch. Read about the purpose and role of the ignition switch in a car, its design and operation, as well as its typical malfunctions in this article.

Electrical part

Even if the mechanical part of the ignition switch is fully operational, the terminal block still often fails. You can always replace it, since such a spare part is sold in any car store.

The terminal part often burns out itself or its contacts, which connect certain power supply circuits, burn out. It also happens that the central plastic insert melts, which opens and closes some contacts at different positions of the ignition key. This overheating is provoked by holding the key in the “starter” position for a long time, when the driver cannot start the engine of his vehicle for a long time.

In such cases, it is necessary to purchase a new terminal block, not an ignition switch.

It is very important that the connection remains unchanged. If you are replacing for the first time, you need to look at the bottom of the ignition switch and there draw the colors of the wire and the terminals to which they are connected. Each of them on the block has its own number, so it is very convenient to write down the wire color and terminal number so as not to confuse anything.