How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't start until the ignition switch sends the electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time could cause the switch malfunction.

With the help of specially designed tools, you are able to remove your steering column trim and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it right.

1. Make sure you check the Switch

A bad switch is one of the most common ignition issues. It functions as bridge between two contacts, controlling the relays' activation and deactivation. Because it isn't able to harness the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter component that is less likely to fail. The switch could still be damaged or corroded.

A defective switch is identified by a difficulty turning the key. This could be due to various factors such as not inserting the key correctly or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's also commonplace for people to mistake their keys to their car with those of the keys of someone else, which can cause mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues with the system. You should also check the voltage of every component to ensure they are supplying enough power. Once you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.

Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round component that connects everything. It's necessary to use an elongated flathead as well as something that is long enough to push the pin into. You can use anything from a paintbrush to Kabob stick, but be careful of anything that is hard as it could cause damage to the hole.

When you're ready to do the work, you'll have to take away any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After taking off the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then, carefully remove it. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own, this will tell you exactly how to do it.

If the ignition switch isn't working it is recommended to replace it by a professional. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column, which could trigger an unintentional airbag deployment if it's done incorrectly. Therefore, it's often best to have your local locksmith handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

If you are unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car isn't starting, your problem could be related to any number of parts of your car's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works can help you spot problems and make the necessary repairs.

The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is operated by a key. It includes four positions "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is locked (which is typically marked by an red light), the ignition circuit is in operation and it is not possible to start your car.

You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch and Fix Car ignition ignition coil. If the ignition switch is running, the voltmeter should show about 12.6, If the voltage drops below that, it means there's an open circuit in the system. This could be a solenoid, battery or the ignition coil.

Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure that no other components interfere with the test. Then, set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and put one lead on one of the ignition switch terminals. The other leads should go to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or doesn't show any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.

When replacing the switch, be certain to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run correctly. Also, when you replace the ignition switch, be careful not to strike the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools or they'll become stuck and Fix Car ignition your engine won't start. You'll have to take off the steering wheel and gear selector in certain vehicles to gain access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge, and it is not recommended until you have an owner's guideline that states it's safe. If you do not you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition lock repair near me switch but still can't get your car to start it could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the component which holds the key and is mechanically linked to the steering lock to ensure that burglars won't be able to drive the car without it.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you may be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder get stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which could cause your car not to start. Or, the cylinder might be loose and a tap using a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Be careful not mixing the springs, and ensure that the key is properly inserted.

Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is when you need to turn the key and test it in various positions before it starts. This is a bad sign and should be corrected right away as it will only get worse with time.

To examine the cylinder you'll need to unplug your battery and take off the cover around your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as should the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have a spare ignition switch lying around, it's likely possible to take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a locksmith to reuse them as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder make sure to reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the covers and panels were removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition chain. If it fails, the engine can't run. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or it may start but not run well. In either case, the cause is likely to be one of the factors that block or hinder electricity from crossing the spark plug gap, which allows your engine's gas and fuel mixture to start.

Be sure to use gloves and protective tools before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when you touch them with bare skin.

When a spark plug is bad, you might observe that the edge of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. It may also have a black layer on the sides of the electrode. These deposits, also known as corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap and igniting your engine.

If you think that your spark plugs may be at fault, you can test them by removing the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire and following the proper procedure for your vehicle to remove any components that are covering the spark plugs. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and turn the engine. If they're working you will be able to see a strong blue spark across the gap in the middle of the central electrode.

If you do not detect a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go back through the ignition system chain, testing each component until you discover what's blocking the spark plugs from doing their job. It's important to remember that all systems wear out and break over time and this is particularly the case with ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to reduce the wear and tear and avoid an issue at the worst possible time.