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The ignition switch allows the vehicle to turn on and activates the engine when you turn the key. It also works in conjunction with a lot of other systems, allowing them to activate and be operated once the car starts. A lot of what your car does is tied directly into that ignition switch, so if it is not working, then much of your car will be inoperable.

To get your ignition switch fixed, you will pay between $125 and $275. The labor costs, on average, about $60, while parts go for anywhere from $75 to $210.

Ignition Switch Replacement Cost Comparison

Your Mechanic

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $109-$275

 

Midas

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $117-$289

 

Mr. Tire

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $110-$194

 

NAPA

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 24 months $129-$304

 

Walmart

Work Warranty Price
Parts Limited $55-$214

 

Amazon

Work Warranty Price
Parts Limited $45-$203

What Is Ignition Switch Replacement?

Replacing the switch tends to be pretty simple in most cars. It’s simply a matter of changing out an old part for a new one, but some cars with more complex starting systems will take longer, require more complex and expensive parts and became more involved ordeals. You likely already know how complex your car’s starting system is, and that can give you an idea of what end of the price range your repairs will fall into.

Benefits of Ignition Switch Replacement

By getting this problem taken care of, you can be sure that your car will start when you turn the key. It gives you a reliable car and reduces stress, and it allows you to operate the majority of the systems in your car. If you don’t want to get stranded somewhere or be unable to go where you need to go, then make sure you take care of this problem early.

What Is Done during Ignition Switch Replacement?

How easy or difficult replacing the switch is depends on what kind of car you have and how the ignition switch failed. If the lock cylinder is working fine, then replacing the ignition switch should not be a problem. The mechanic just needs to open up the plastic covers on the steering column and then turn the lock switch and remove it. From there, he can simply pull out the ignition switch and replace it, then put back everything else where it was before. He may bench test the parts to ensure that everything is working properly.

When to Get Ignition Switch Replacement

You’ll probably first notice that you are having ignition switch problems when you try to start the car and it takes a few turns to get it started, or it doesn’t start at all. At this point, if you can get it to start, it should be fine to drive to the mechanic, but you don’t want to risk not being able to start it again when youreally need to use the car, so make sure you take care of this issue right away.

It’s hard to say when your switch will fail. There isn’t a set time to start watching for this problem on most vehicles, so youreally just need to have it checked out when you are having the vehicle inspected and look for any warning signs that there might be a problem.

How to Save Money on Ignition Switch Replacement

In most cases, you can do the work yourself with minimal fuss and risk to your vehicle or yourself. That’s a great way to save money. However, in some cars, particularly those with complex starting systems, it is best to leave the work up to a professional. You could get in over your head if there is a lot of work involved in changing out the ignition switch, so make sure you know what you are getting into.

If you are looking for other ways to save money on this repair, then you can do so by comparing the costs of different mechanics for the same job. You can compare the cost of parts as well, and it is sometimes cheaper to source the ignition switch yourself rather than to pay what the mechanic charges you for it.

Sample Ignition Switch Replacement Costs

Model Labor Parts Total
Ford F-Series $52-$67 $77-$208 $129-$275
Chevrolet Silverado $52-$67 $79-$115 $131-$182
Ford Focus $52-$67 $77-$208 $129-$275
Toyota Camry $52-$67 $58-$85 $110-$152
Toyota Corolla $52-$67 $58-$85 $110-$152
Nissan Altima $52-$67 $58-$85 $110-$152
Honda CR-V $52-$67 $79-$115 $131-$182
Honda Civic $52-$67 $79-$115 $131-$182
Honda Accord $52-$67 $77-$208 $129-$275
Ford Fusion $52-$67 $77-$208 $129-$275

Ignition Switch Costs Submitted By Our Users


Compare your quote to other individuals from around the country to make sure you are getting the best deal. The average for Ignition Switch is $336

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