How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

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

Utilizing specialized tools, you can take off the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Check your repair manual for guidance on how to do this correctly.

1. Make sure you check the Switch

A defective switch is among the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It regulates the time when relays are activated and deactivated through the use of a bridge. It is less likely to fail because it does not channel full power from devices such as the starter. However, it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corroded.

A bad switch can be identified by a difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by many things such as not inserting the key correctly or wearing out the mechanism over time. It is also common for people to misplace their car keys with someone else's, which can lead to mechanical damage.

Before contacting a locksmith, you can try a few things. You'll first want to ensure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues within the system. Also, you should verify the voltage of every component to make sure they're supplying enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.

Luckily, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of equipment that connects everything. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to push the pin inside. You can make use of anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but be careful of anything that is hard as it could cause damage to the hole.

If you're ready for the work, you'll need to take away any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After that take off and loosen any screws that hold the switch in place, and then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you may 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 have it replaced by an expert. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column, which could trigger an unintentional airbag deployment if done incorrectly. It is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this.

2. Verify the Wire

Your car may not start if you are unable to turn the key or it won't start. This could be due to any number components in the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works can help you spot problems and make the correct repairs.

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

You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch or coil. When the ignition switch is set to run and the voltmeter is reading approximately 12.6, Fix Car Ignition If the voltage falls below that, it means there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be the solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil.

Connect the electrical connector to ensure that it does not interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter in the resistance or continuity modes and then place one lead onto one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage gauge reads "open" or doesn't show any voltage it's time to replace the switch.

Make sure you use a new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure that your vehicle is running and starts correctly. When you replace the switch, be sure not to hit the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and the engine will not run. You'll need to take off the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in some vehicles to gain access to 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 don't then you could cause serious damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've worked your way through the wiring, battery and ignition switch and still can't get your car to start, it might be time to check the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is connected to the lock on the steering wheel to ensure that thieves can't control the car without keys.

You might be noticing that your key does not turn if the cylinder has worn out. The pins in the cylinder can get stuck as they adjust to the shape of your key. This could cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder could also be shaky, but a tap with the small hammer from a tack can assist in releasing it. Be careful not mixing with the springs and ensure that your key is properly installed.

If you need to move the key before it can begin, it is a indication that your cylinder is been damaged. This is a sign of trouble and needs to be fixed immediately, since it will continue to get worse as time passes.

To test the cylinder, you'll need to disconnect your battery and take off the cover around your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. Then, you'll be able to pull out the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have an extra ignition switch lying around, it's likely that you could take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith in order to reuse them as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring and secure it before reattaching all covers and panels that you removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the last link in your ignition system chain. The engine will not run if the spark plug breaks. It can be that your car ignition lock will not start at all or will run poorly. In either case, it is likely that one of several things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the air and fuel mixture within your engine.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you are working on a level surface and using protective gloves and tools to prevent getting zapped. Spark plugs can be extremely hot and can cause serious injuries if they are touched by hands without gloves.

If a spark plug goes bad, you may notice that the tip of the electrode's central portion has a slight brown or gray residue on it. The electrode could also have a dark coating. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap between the spark plug and starting an engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs could be the cause You could test them by remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition key replacement cost 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. After you have removed the plugs you can place them on a surface that is grounded and then crank the engine. If they're good you will be able to see a strong blue spark extending across the gap between the tip of the central electrode.

If you don't see a spark you have discovered the problem. The next step is to go back through the ignition system chain, testing each component until you find out what's stopping the spark plugs from performing their job. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear down and break over time, and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can slow down the process and prevent major problems in the worst case.