Switches are commonly replaced parts in power tools. A switch handles all on/off and variable speed functions. They also have a role in electric breaking; They can momentarily reverse electrical polarity, because switches use mechanical internals, they tend to degrade and wear out over time eventually requiring replacement.
Some common signs of a broken or failing switch are: Tool has completely stopped functioning - it will not turn on Tool operates intermittently, requiring miltiple tries to turn on, until eventually it won't turn on at all Variable speed function and electric braking aren't working properly.