VAZ 2109 ignition switch replacement

Ignition switch device VAZ 2109

ZZ is found in old and new designs. The old one has 4 positions, a long key and a relay. The new one does not have a relay, it has 3 positions and a short key.

The ignition switch of the VAZ 21099, like other models, performs two functions:

mechanical – locks the steering wheel without a key;
electrical - closes contacts depending on the position of the key.

ZZ car 2109

Scheme

The ignition switch diagram represents the position of the key in the lock and can be presented in the form of a table:

Key position	What's happening
«0»	There is no power to the vehicle.
"I"	Voltage is supplied to all elements of the electrical network.
"II"	Voltage is supplied to the starter.
"III"	Handbrake light, parking lights.

Device

On the VAZ-2109 you can find the ignition of a new, as well as an old model. Older models have 4 positions, a long key and a relay. The new ones have 3 positions and a short key, but there is no relay at all. The ignition switch in the VAZ-2109, as well as in other cars, is designed to perform two functions: to lock the steering column (mechanical) and to close contacts when turning the key (electrical). The electrical part works depending on the turn of the key:

car de-energized – 0;
voltage supplied to the entire electrical network – 1;
supplying current only to the starter – 2;
turning on emergency lighting.

Typical faults

Since the ignition switch on the VAZ 2109 performs two functions, the nature of the faults can be divided into mechanical and electrical, although most often the lock breaks down in starter mode:

A mechanical malfunction includes jamming of the core in any position: it is physically impossible to turn the key. In this case, you can inject a little silicone lubricant inside. If this does not help, you will have to remove the ignition switch and replace it with a new one.
Electrical faults can occur at a certain position of the key when the integrity of the electrical network in the switch is broken. If there is no contact, all system components will not work. If there is contact, but the circuit does not occur where it is needed, this is fraught with a short circuit and overheating of the circuit breaker. It may melt and a specific smell will appear (video author - MAQS MAC).

Repair and replacement instructions

Basically, the protection zone can be repaired. Repair usually consists of replacing the core or contact group. If the problem remains after repair, then the ignition switch needs to be replaced.

Core of ZZ VAZ 2109

On a VAZ 2109, replacing the core consists of the following steps:

First, the protective and decorative cover is removed from the steering column, as well as the windshield washer and turn switches.
The lock is secured with screws and a hook latch. There may be problems with unscrewing the screws, since their heads are cut off. To remove them, you first need to loosen them with chisels and then unscrew them with pliers. You can carefully drill out the screws.
Next, we disconnect the clamps, disengaging them.
By pulling out the side pin, you can remove the core. If that doesn’t work, the core can be drilled out using a thin drill. In extreme cases, you will have to dismantle the entire assembly.
The next step is to disconnect the connector, wire plug, and ground wire.
By releasing the latch, you can remove the cover and contact group.
We insert a new core and check the work. When you turn the key, all processes should work.

The steering wheel lock should also be checked. If the steering wheel does not lock when turned fully, you need to adjust the position of the lock on the column.

Replacing the contact group of the VAZ ignition switch comes down to dismantling the ignition switch: the removal diagram is described above.

When performing the procedure, the following recommendations should be followed:

before disconnecting contacts, it is advisable to assign numbers to them, this will help to avoid errors when connecting;
If there is a retaining ring in the design of the contact group, you must first remove it using an awl.

Knowing how the ignition switch on a VAZ 2109 works, and having at least a little experience, you can carry out the repair yourself without resorting to the help of specialists. This way you can save on maintenance costs.

REPLACING THE LOCK CIRCUIT OR THE CONTACT GROUP

Replacing the VAZ 2109 lock cylinders requires the following tools:

New cylinder complete with keys
Thin clock screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Fine drill
Chisels
Hammer
Pliers

In the event of any breakdown, it is not necessary to replace the entire lock; if the cause of the malfunction lies in replaceable parts, then a partial repair of the lock is performed and replacing the lock cylinders on the VAZ 2109 makes sense when the key stops rotating freely in the keyhole. Another option for partial repair is to replace the contact group; for this, a minimum of tools and a little understanding of the device are enough.

Our instructions will help you understand the device:

Nothing and no one forbids you to change the entire lock every time, and even go to a service station if you are satisfied with the price
After removing the casing, access to the switch lock opens
The lock cylinder can, in principle, be removed at this stage
Therefore, we pull out the side pin that holds it in the lock
This can be easily done with a thin screwdriver (clockwise) while tapping it with a small hammer
If the pin cannot be pulled out in this way, then try to drill out the cylinder carefully using a thin drill
If it is more convenient for you to remove it first, remove the ignition switch before proceeding to replace the cylinder, to do this you need to unscrew the bolts securing the ignition switch to the steering column
This must be done using a hammer and chisel, as these bolts have sheared heads.
Use a chisel to loosen them slightly, and then unscrew them with pliers, as in the photo below

Loosen the bolts securing the lock to the steering column

Now we remove the bracket and the lock itself from the column, be sure to disconnect its electrical connector
We unscrew the screw securing the ignition relay and remove it from under the panel
Disconnect the connector
Disconnect the “mass” wire
Using a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the screw
Then release the latch and remove the cover, then the contact group
So we pulled the switch
We remove the cylinder with our own hands and the ignition switch, as already described above
We are replacing it
We check the operation of the lock with a new cylinder installed, to do this we turn the ignition key
After installation, do not forget to check the correct operation of the locking mechanism, our steering shaft
When the mechanism does not work when turning the steering wheel fully, you need to adjust the location of the lock on the steering column
Only after completing the adjustment of the location and checking the functionality of our locking mechanism, you can tighten the bolts until the heads come off completely, use a “10” spanner for this purpose

Ignition switch device in VAZ 21099

In the “VAZ 2108-99 Car Repair Manual” the ignition switch is called a switch. The name is not entirely accurate, since this unit is precisely a locking mechanism, activated by turning the key.

In addition to the function of opening the main circuits of electrical equipment, the lock also serves as an anti-theft device that blocks the steering wheel shaft.

For VAZ 21099, locks were produced in two types - old and new models. The old-style ignition switch was installed on carburetor cars and differed from the new one in the following ways:

the presence of a connector for the ignition relay in the wiring harness;
a longer key;
had 4, not 3 fixed key positions.

Removing and installing the ignition switch on VAZ 2108, VAZ 2109, VAZ 21099 cars

To remove the ignition switch from a VAZ 2108, VAZ 2109, VAZ 21099 car, do the following: 1. Disconnect the wire from the “-” terminal of the battery.

2. Remove the six screws securing the lower steering column housing.

3. Remove the lower steering column cover...

4... and the ignition switch trim.

5. Remove the upper steering column cover.

6. Disconnect the connector with the ignition switch wires from the wiring harness.

7. Disconnect the connector with the ignition switch wires from the ignition relay.

8. Insert the key into the ignition and turn the key to position “0” to turn off the anti-theft device. Remove the four mounting bolts (two bolts are located on top of the steering column). Remove the bracket and ignition switch. NOTE

Removing the lock

In order to provide access to the lock, you just need to remove the steering column cover. The lock has a fastening in the form of a clamp or stepladder. The removable plate covers the steering column and is attached to the lock body with two or four screws with “breakaway” heads. In order to loosen them, you can use a thin chisel:

All that remains is to disconnect the wires and remove the lock. In the photo, the steering wheel and steering column switch have been removed, but there is no need to do this - it’s just that the image is more clear.

Ignition replacement and check

To replace the ignition switch, you need to perform all the steps in a certain sequence:

Before replacing, you must remove the negative terminal from the battery.
Remove the steering column cover and the two switches located under the steering wheel.
After this, you need to insert the key into the ignition switch and set it to the zero position. This is necessary for the anti-theft device to be disabled.
Next, unscrew the 4 bolts that hold the ignition switch. If bolts with sheared heads are installed, knock them down using a hammer and chisel.
After unscrewing (knocking down) the bolts, remove them from the holes using pliers.
On the left side, remove the bracket, and then on the right side, remove the ignition switch.
Then disconnect the wire block from the electrical connector.
Get under the dashboard and disconnect the ignition switch connectors from the relay.

Installing a new lock must be done step by step in reverse order.

To check the contacts on the wire block, use an ohmmeter. The device must display zero. If his readings are different, change the contact group.

To change a contact group, you need to do the following:

Using a screwdriver, unscrew the screw that secures the cover.
Bend back the plastic latches that hold the cover in place, then remove it.
Remove the contact group.

The contact group is also installed in the reverse order.

Not in all cases it will be possible to find four bolts on the steering column on a VAZ-2109. On some models it can be secured with two bolts and a hook.

Ignition switch device and its repair

The lock body 2 contains a built-in device that blocks the steering shaft and a cylinder 5. Contact group 3 is the ignition switch itself with a wiring harness. Repair of the contact group is not provided by the manufacturer, but replacing it is not difficult - it is simply put on the body.

Pinout of the new ignition switch block:

You can “ring” the contact group of such a lock using the diagram:

To check, remove the terminal from the battery and disconnect the connector, then, placing the key in different positions, measure the resistance between the corresponding terminals of the block with a multimeter in ohmmeter mode. For example, the resistance between contacts 1, 2, 7 and 5 with the key position “2” should be zero, and between any of them and the others it should be infinite.

However, sometimes malfunctions of the contact group are visible to the naked eye: fallen off wires, melted plastic near the wire connection points, etc.

Pinout and connection diagram of the VAZ 21099 ignition switch with relay:

Repair of the lock is carried out by replacing either the contact group or its cylinder. Failure of the cylinder manifests itself in jamming of the lock mechanism.

But it is best if there is a mechanical breakdown of the lock, that is, jamming of its insert or locking rod, to replace the entire product.

Sometimes discussions about the “capriciousness” of ignition switches are caused by the fact that non-original spare parts were used when repairing or replacing them. Many parts, including locks, are supplied to the assembly line by the Dimitrovgrad Automotive Assembly Plant (DAAZ).

Factory products are distinguished not only by a distinct mark (see the figure below), but also by such features as neat stamping or casting, high-quality galvanic or chrome plating, etc.

Ignition switch device in VAZ 21099

In the “VAZ 2108-99 Car Repair Manual” the ignition switch is called a switch. The name is not entirely accurate, since this unit is precisely a locking mechanism, activated by turning the key.

In addition to the function of opening the main circuits of electrical equipment, the lock also serves as an anti-theft device that blocks the steering wheel shaft.

For VAZ 21099, locks were produced in two types - old and new models. The old-style ignition switch was installed on carburetor cars and differed from the new one in the following ways:

the presence of a connector for the ignition relay in the wiring harness;
a longer key;
had 4, not 3 fixed key positions.

These differences had virtually no effect on the procedure for removing, checking and repairing the ignition switch of a carburetor or injection VAZ 21099, since the products have a similar design.

The nature of the malfunctions has also not changed - the main causes of operational failures are mechanical damage to parts and destruction or burning of movable electrical contacts.

Removing the lock

Replacing the ignition switch VAZ 2109 video

It was not uncommon to see VAZ 2109 owners who, when the ignition switch failed, connected the wires to a button and then used it to constantly start the engine. Of course, this is a way out for a while, but it’s not worth driving like this all the time; it’s better to replace the lock, since its price is not that high - about 700 rubles.

As for the tool, we will need the following:

socket head 10
crank or ratchet handle

But before you begin this task, you first need to remove the steering column cover. After this, use the head to unscrew the two fastening bolts that tighten the ignition switch clamp:

And then separate the two parts of the clamp so that they disengage with each other, as can be clearly seen in the photo:

And now you can remove the lock from the steering column by lowering it down:

Then we disconnect the plugs with wires, one of which is shown below - already disconnected:

And all that remains is to disconnect one more plug, which has a large connector, and to do this you will have to stick your hand a little under the panel to get to it:

As a result, we get the following picture:

As you can see, the ignition switch on VAZ 2109-2108 cars is not that difficult to remove, and the installation is no different, it just happens in the reverse order.

Welcome! The ignition switch breaks quite rarely, but it still happens. After a lock breaks, it of course needs to be replaced with a new one, but how to do this, you ask? Some people still know the answer to this question, but some do not. For those who don’t know, we have prepared this article, which will describe in detail the process of replacing the ignition switch. And at the end of this article you will find a video clip that will describe in detail the process of replacing this lock. Note! To replace the ignition switch, you will need the following tools: First, you will need screwdrivers. When do you need to change the ignition switch and contact group? It must be replaced if it breaks, as well as if the key is lost, and even if the cylinder in the lock stops turning and is stuck in one place. The contact group must be replaced if it is deformed, and even if, after turning the key in the lock, the car’s engine stops starting.

Note! Before you immediately say that the contact group of the lock is to blame for everything, first check the contacts of its wire blocks for functionality. (How to check the contacts of the contact group, see below in the section: “Checking the contacts of the wire block”)

How to replace the ignition switch, check the contact group and replace it on a VAZ 2108-VAZ 21099?

Replacing the ignition switch:

Removal: 1) Starting with “The battery is a rechargeable battery,” unscrew the nut that holds the “-” terminal on the battery and then remove the terminal. (How to remove the negative terminal from the battery, see the article about “Replacing the battery on a VAZ”, in the “first” paragraph)

2) Then remove the steering column cover and both steering column switches. (How to remove the casing and both switches, see the article: “Replacing under-steering switches”)

3) Next, insert if the lock allows it, then insert the ignition key into it and put it in position “0”.

Note! The key must be installed in this position only to disable the anti-theft device!

4) Now remove the four bolts that secure the ignition switch. If you have these bolts with a cut off head, then knock them down with a hammer and chisel. (Be sure to read the “Important!” paragraph)

Ignition switch device VAZ 2109

ZZ is found in old and new designs. The old one has 4 positions, a long key and a relay. The new one does not have a relay, it has 3 positions and a short key.

The ignition switch of the VAZ 21099, like other models, performs two functions:

mechanical – locks the steering wheel without a key;
electrical - closes contacts depending on the position of the key.

ZZ car 2109

Scheme

The ignition switch diagram represents the position of the key in the lock and can be presented in the form of a table:

Key position	What's happening
«0»	There is no power to the vehicle.
"I"	Voltage is supplied to all elements of the electrical network.
"II"	Voltage is supplied to the starter.
"III"	Handbrake light, parking lights.

Typical faults

Since the ignition switch on the VAZ 2109 performs two functions, the nature of the faults can be divided into mechanical and electrical, although most often the lock breaks down in starter mode:

A mechanical malfunction includes jamming of the core in any position: it is physically impossible to turn the key. In this case, you can inject a little silicone lubricant inside. If this does not help, you will have to remove the ignition switch and replace it with a new one.
Electrical faults can occur at a certain position of the key when the integrity of the electrical network in the switch is broken. If there is no contact, all system components will not work. If there is contact, but the circuit does not occur where it is needed, this is fraught with a short circuit and overheating of the circuit breaker. It may melt and a specific smell will appear (video author - MAQS MAC).

Symptoms of a problem

What are the symptoms of a failed ignition switch? Let's start with the fact that its malfunction can be either mechanical or electrical in nature. In the first case it is:

lock jamming in one of the positions;
inability to unlock the steering shaft;
turning on the ignition with a non-original key or other object.

If the lock has an electrical problem, you may notice the following symptoms:

the warning lights on the instrument panel do not light up or light up and go out periodically;
the starter does not start;
Some or all electrical appliances, the circuit of which is powered through the ignition switch, do not work (cigarette lighter, headlights, washer, wipers, etc.).

Repair and replacement instructions

Basically, the protection zone can be repaired. Repair usually consists of replacing the core or contact group. If the problem remains after repair, then the ignition switch needs to be replaced.

Core of ZZ VAZ 2109

On a VAZ 2109, replacing the core consists of the following steps:

First, the protective and decorative cover is removed from the steering column, as well as the windshield washer and turn switches.
The lock is secured with screws and a hook latch. There may be problems with unscrewing the screws, since their heads are cut off. To remove them, you first need to loosen them with chisels and then unscrew them with pliers. You can carefully drill out the screws.
Next, we disconnect the clamps, disengaging them.
By pulling out the side pin, you can remove the core. If that doesn’t work, the core can be drilled out using a thin drill. In extreme cases, you will have to dismantle the entire assembly.
The next step is to disconnect the connector, wire plug, and ground wire.
By releasing the latch, you can remove the cover and contact group.
We insert a new core and check the work. When you turn the key, all processes should work.

The steering wheel lock should also be checked. If the steering wheel does not lock when turned fully, you need to adjust the position of the lock on the column.

Replacing the contact group of the VAZ ignition switch comes down to dismantling the ignition switch: the removal diagram is described above.

When performing the procedure, the following recommendations should be followed:

before disconnecting contacts, it is advisable to assign numbers to them, this will help to avoid errors when connecting;
If there is a retaining ring in the design of the contact group, you must first remove it using an awl.

Changing the contact group

Exploded view of the lock

Based on price considerations, replacing one contact group is less expensive:

All our actions are repeated in principle, as in the case described above with removing the lock, you will have to remove the casing, and so on
To avoid the widespread problem associated with mixing up contacts, it is recommended to number them before disconnecting (or mark them in some other way)
This measure will save your nerves and time.
Some models of locks have a locking ring in their contact group, and here we need an awl to pull it out
It’s important not to forget to stick it in place later
Then everything is put back together and screwed to the control column

That's all, all that remains is to finish watching the video and relax and change every part of the lock.