How Long Do Car Switches Normally Last?

Nearly all your vehicle functions are operated by switches of some sort. When you start your car, the ignition cylinder activates the ignition switch. When you open your car’s power windows, you operate a switch. When you activate the rear window defogger, you press a switch. A switch is a component that changes the electrical input of a device, whether that is on or off, increasing or decreasing.

No matter what function it operates, every button in your vehicle is a switch. Their purpose is to turn on or off a feature or perform an adjustment. Some switches, like radio buttons and power door lock switches, are used much more than others.

Switches are prone to failure depending on how much they're used. A few switches particularly susceptible to failure are:

  • The driver’s power window switch
  • The driver’s side power door lock switch
  • The ignition switch
  • The headlight switch

Though these switches are more prone to wear than others, there is no set life expectancy. It is very possible that a power door lock switch can be used several thousand times and never fail. The ignition switch can be cycled dozens of times per day over the course of decades and never needs to be replaced. Though there are some that require replacement more commonly, it does not indicate that you should expect to replace it on your car.

If you do experience any problems with one of the switches in your vehicle, no matter if it is the defroster or the audio system, have an automotive repair professional inspect and replace the faulty switch.


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Claud

9 years of experience
640 reviews
Claud
9 years of experience
Saturn Aura V6-3.5L - Defroster is not working - Southfield, Michigan
Great customer service.
Dodge Caliber - Defroster is not working - Warren, Michigan
Knowledgeable and consistent, gets the job done in a timely manner.

David

14 years of experience
463 reviews
David
14 years of experience
Mitsubishi Eclipse L4-2.4L - Defroster is not working Inspection - Marietta, Georgia
David K. was knowledgable, prepared, and very professional. I highly recommend his service.

Paul

24 years of experience
361 reviews
Paul
24 years of experience
Dodge Ram 1500 V6-3.7L - Defroster is not working - Matthews, North Carolina
On time and professional

Brian

14 years of experience
4 reviews
Brian
14 years of experience
Honda Civic L4-1.8L - Defroster is not working - San Pablo, California
Brian was extremely helpful today. He answered all of my questions and even showed me all of the parts on my car that needed my attention. Really nice guy and easy to talk to. Thanks, Brian!

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