How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

A car won't start unless the ignition switch is sending an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time wear and tear may cause the switch to fail.

Utilizing specialized tools, you can remove the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it correctly.

1. Check the Switch

A defective switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It regulates the moment relays are activated, and deactivated by acting as bridge. It is less likely to fail because it does not channel full power from devices like the starter. It is still susceptible to being damaged or corrosion-prone.

One sign of a bad switch is difficulty turning the key. This could be due to many things, including improperly inserting the key, or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon for people to mix keys with keys from someone else's. This can result in mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith, you may try a few options. First, you'll need to ensure that the battery is charged and that there are no other electrical issues in the system. You should also test the voltage of each component to determine if they're providing enough power. Once you've completed these steps, it's now time to begin troubleshooting.

Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition cylinder lock repair module, a round component that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to push the pin into. This could be anything from an artist's brush to a kabob skewer, but you should stay clear of any brittle material that could break inside the hole.

Once you're ready to complete the job, you'll need to take away any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After that, loosen and remove any screws that are holding the switch in place and then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may have to cut off any cables connected to it. You can find out how to do this in the instruction manual for your vehicle.

If the ignition switch isn't working it's recommended to replace it by professionals. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without removing the steering column. This could lead to an unintentional deployment of airbags when you don't do it correctly. It is best to let your local locksmith handle this.

2. Check the Wiring

Your car may not start if you are unable to turn the ignition key or it isn't starting. This could be due to any number components in the ignition system. It is important to know how the ignition system works to be able to spot issues and make the necessary repairs.

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

You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch and ignition coil. If the ignition switch is running, the voltmeter should show around 12.6, If the voltage falls below that then there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or the ignition coil itself.

Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure there are no other components that could interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity modes and connect one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or does not register any voltage, you must replace the switch.

If you're replacing the switch, be sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. Also, when replacing the ignition switch, you must be cautious not to touch the ignition cylinder pins with your tools or they'll get stuck and the engine won't be able to start. You'll have to take off the steering wheel and gear selector in certain vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy, and it is not recommended until you have an owner's manual that states it's safe. If you do not, it is possible to cause severe damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the wiring, battery, and ignition switch but you can't get your car start, it might be time to look at the cylinder. The cylinder is the piece that holds the key. It is mechanically connected to the steering lock to ensure that a would-be burglar can't drive the car without it.

If your cylinder has started to wear out, you might be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. The pins in the cylinder could become stuck as they adjust to your key's shape. This could cause your car to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be loose, but a tap with the tack hammer may aid in releasing it. Just be careful not to jumble the springs inside and ensure that your key is properly placed before tapping.

If you need to move the key before it can begin, it is a indication that your cylinder is been damaged. This is a bad indication and should be addressed immediately, as it can only get worse over time.

To check the cylinder, you'll need to unplug your battery and remove the cover on your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. You should then be able to remove the old ignition switch and the cylinder made of metal. If you don't have an extra ignition switch lying around, it's possible that you can take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a locksmith to reuse them as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder, be sure to reconnect the wiring harness and secure it and reattach any covers or panels you've removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the last link in your ignition system chain. The engine won't start in the event that the spark plug fails. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or may start but run poorly. In either case, the reason is likely to be one of a few things that prevent or impair the flow of electricity across the spark plug gap which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture.

Be sure to use gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can get very hot and could cause serious injuries if they are touched with bare hands.

If a spark plug goes bad, you might observe that the edge of the electrode's central portion has some light brown or gray substance on it. The electrode could also be covered with a dark layer. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs might be the culprit you can test them by having them remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the appropriate procedure for your car to remove any components that are covering the spark plugs. After removing the plugs place them on a surface that is grounded, and start the engine. If they're good you should see a strong blue spark across the gap between the tip of the central electrode.

If you do not see a spark you have identified the problem. The next step is to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each part until the spark plugs are no longer working. Every system will wear out and eventually fail This is especially relevant to ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to reduce the time it takes to repair and avoid a major headache in the worst case.