The electrical portion of the ignition switch assembly is what provides power to electrical components such as the stereo, windshield wipers, and electric windows and also supplies power to the starter motor, which enables the engine to start. If there is a problem with the ignition switch and it becomes impossible to start the engine continuously or intermittently, then an ignition switch replacement is needed.
Some manufacturers supply just the electrical portion of the ignition switch. So, if just the electrical portion goes bad, then the entire ignition switch assembly doesn't have to replaced. To replace the electrical portion of the ignition switch assembly, the technician removes the trim panels around the ignition switch and disassembles the steering column. Then they remove the electrical portion of the ignition switch assembly and replaces it with the new component. Finally, the technician reassembles the steering column and replaces the trim panels.
An ignition switch replacement is usually covered under your vehicles' new car warranty. However, they do expire after a certain year or mileage limit. There are extended auto warranties available that will extend coverage to the ignition switch, depending upon the level of coverage, after the vehicle's factory warranty has expired.