How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't start unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time can result in the switch not functioning properly.

Using special tools, you can take off the trim on your steering column and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair ignition lock cylinder manual for learn how to do it right.

1. Make sure you check the Switch

One of the most common ignition issues is a defective switch. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, and controls the time when relays are activated and deactivated. Because it doesn't harness the full power of devices like the starter, it's a less powerful component that is less likely to fail. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone.

A malfunctioning switch can be recognized by a slow time turning the key. This can be due to a number of factors that include the wrong way to insert a key, or wearing down the mechanism over time. It's not unusual for people to mix their keys up with keys from someone else's. This could cause mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith you may try a few options. First, you'll need to make sure the battery is charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of every component to see if they're providing enough power. Once you've completed these steps, it's now time to begin troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of metal that connects everything. You'll need to use a flathead and a piece of material long enough to insert the pin. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything brittle as it could cause damage to the hole.

When you're ready to do the job, you'll need to take off any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After taking off the trim pieces, take off any screws that hold the switch in place. Then, carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you might be required to disconnect any wires 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's recommended to replace it by professionals. It is possible to replace it by turning off the steering column, which may trigger unintentional airbag deployment if it's done in a wrong manner. It is recommended to leave it to your local locksmith to handle this.

2. Check the Wiring

If you are unable to turn the ignition key or your car isn't starting, your problem could be related to any of the parts of your car's ignition system. It is important to know how the ignition system functions to identify problems and make the right repairs.

The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch that can be turned by the key. It has four positions including off run, accessory, and "lock." If the switch is locked (which is usually indicated by the red light) the ignition circuit is activated and it is inaccessible to start your car.

To determine whether the ignition switch defective or the ignition coil is defective, you will need to do a quick electrical test with the help of a voltage meter. When the fix ignition switch switch is running at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read about 12.6, If the voltage drops below that, it means there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or even the ignition key replacement coil itself.

Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure that no other components interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity modes and connect one lead onto one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other leads should go to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage gauge shows "open" or doesn't register any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.

Use a new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the ignition switch, you must be careful not to hit the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools, or they'll get stuck and your engine will not start. You'll need to remove the steering wheel and gear selector on some vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and should not be done unless you have an owner's manual that indicates that it is safe to do so. If you don't, it is possible to cause serious damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you have tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch, but still cannot get your car to start It could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the part which holds the key and is mechanically attached to the steering lock so that thieves can't drive the car if it's not there.

If your cylinder has started to wear out, you may find that the key doesn't turn. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder become stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which may cause your car not to start. Or, the cylinder might be shaky, but a tap with a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Be careful not to crush the springs inside and ensure that your key is correctly inserted before tapping.

If you need to jiggle and move your key before it will begin, it is a indication that your cylinder is become damaged. This is a sign of trouble and should be corrected immediately, since it will only get worse over time.

To test the cylinder, you must remove the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition lock repair switch should be simple to remove, as well as the cylinder made of steel. If you don't have a spare switch, you might be able take your original ignition cylinder and switch to a locksmith for reuse as long they're in good shape. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring and secure it before reattaching the covers and panels were removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition chain. The engine will not run in the event that the spark plug fails. It could be that your car won't start at all or will run poorly. In any case, the root is likely to be one of several things that prevent or impair electricity from crossing the spark plug gap, which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture.

Be sure to wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can get very hot and cause serious injuries if they are handled with hands that are not protected.

There may be a slight gray or brown residue on the edge of the electrode if a spark plug is bad. It may also have a black coating on the side of the electrode. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap of your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you suspect that your spark plugs could be the culprit you can test them by having them remove them from their tube inside 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 the components that cover the spark plugs. After removing the plugs place them on a metal surface that is grounded and begin the engine. If they are good you should see a bright blue spark crossing the gap between the tip of the central electrode.

If you do not see a spark, you've identified the problem. The next step is to go backwards through the ignition chain and test each part until the spark plugs aren't functioning. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break down over time, and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to reduce the time it takes to repair and avoid a major headache in the worst case.