How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't begin to start until the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time, normal wear and tear may cause the switch to malfunction.
Utilizing special tools, you can remove the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair manual for guidance on how to do this correctly.
1. Check the Switch
A bad switch is one of the most frequent ignition problems. It acts as bridge between two contacts, and controls the relays' activation and deactivation. Since it doesn't channel the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that's less likely fail. However it's still possible for the switch to get damaged or corrosion-prone.
A bad switch is recognized by a slow time turning the key. This can be caused by a variety of things such as improperly inserting the key, or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not unusual to see people mix keys with keys from someone else's. This could cause mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't working, there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues in the system. It is also important to test the voltage of each component to determine if it's capable of supplying enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.
Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver and something that is long enough to push the pin inside. It could be anything from paintbrush handles to Kabob skewer, but you should stay clear of anything brittle that could break within the hole.
If you're ready for 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, gently take it off. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. Find out how to do this in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't functioning, it's best to have it replaced by professionals. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column which may trigger unintentional deployment of airbags if done improperly. It is recommended to leave it to your local locksmith to handle this.
2. Verify the Wire
Your car may not start if it is difficult to turn the key or if 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 functions to be able to spot problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that can be operated by a key. It has four positions, which include "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by an red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is impossible to start your car.
You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch or ignition coil. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the run position. If the voltage drops below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit within the system. This could be a solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil.
Disconnect the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity modes and 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 voltmeter reads "open" or fails to show any voltage, you should replace the switch.
Use a brand new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle is running and starts correctly. When replacing the switch, be sure not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. In the event of a collision, they'll get stuck and your engine won't run. In certain vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and the gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge, and it is not recommended until you have an owner’s manual that states it's safe. Otherwise serious damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is possible.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you have tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch, but still can't get your car to start it could be time to examine the cylinder. It's the part that holds your key, and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock to ensure that thieves can't control the car without keys.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you might find that the key doesn't turn. The pins inside the cylinder could become stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key. This could cause your car to not start. Or, the cylinder might be loose however a tap using the tack hammer may assist in releasing it. Be careful not to mix up the springs and ensure that the key is properly inserted.
If you need to jiggle and move the key before it will begin, it is a indication that your cylinder has gone bad. This is a bad indication and should be addressed immediately, as it will only get worse over time.
To test the cylinder, you will need to remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to take off, as will the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own a spare switch, you might be able to bring the original ignition cylinder and switch to a locksmith for reuse as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the covers and panels you took off.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is your ignition system's final link. The engine will not run if the spark plug breaks. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but not run well. In any case, the root is likely to be one of a few things that hinder or prevent the flow of electricity across the spark plug gap, which allows your engine's gas and fuel mixture.
Be sure to wear protective tools and gloves before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be very hot and can cause serious injuries if they are touched by hands without gloves.
There may be a slight gray or brown fleck on the top of the electrode when the spark plug is damaged. car ignition key replacement could also be covered with a dark coating. These deposits or fouling can prevent high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs could be the culprit, you can test them by having them remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. After that, you'll need to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded and start the engine. If they are working, you should be able to see a strong blue spark at the edge of the central electrode.
If you don't see any spark, you've identified the issue. The next step is to work through the ignition chain, testing each part until you discover what's blocking the spark plugs from performing their job. All systems will get older and eventually break and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can help reduce the wear and tear and avoid a major problem at the worst time.