The starting system is considered as the heart of the electrical system of your Mazda. It usually begins with the battery. This system is comprised of different components such as the neutral safety switch, starter relay or the starter solenoid, starter motor, battery cables and more. But among them, the ignition switch is considered as the most important part of the starting system. Without it, the engine will not simply start up. This switch is designed to serve several purposes. Its primary task is to allow the driver to control the power of some vehicle components. It helps prevent these devices from draining your car's battery especially when it is parked for a long period of time. Your Mazda ignition switch is oftentimes used interchangeably referring to two different parts, the lock cylinder where the key is inserted and the other is the electrical switch which is found behind the lock cylinder. In most vehicles, these two switches are fused as one unit, while the others they keep it separate. So before you purchase a new ignition switch for your car, you should check first the car shop manual to ensure that it matches the specifications of your vehicle. Generally, ignition switches have four positions, off, accessories, on and start. Most vehicles have two switches, the off and lock. The on position turns on the entire vehicle system, while the start position that is fully loaded with springs are used so that the ignition switch will carry on when the key is released. If your Mazda ignition switch is defective, generally, the wiring or the plastic housing is affected. When problems develop, your vehicle may not turn or start. For that reason, you have to replace it immediately. You can find the complete choices of Mazda parts including the Mazda ignition switch at the place you are right now.