How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

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

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

1. Make sure to check the Switch

One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a defective switch. It acts as an intermediary between two contacts, and controls the time when relays are activated and deactivated. It is more likely to fail since it does not channel full power of devices like the starter. It is still susceptible to being damaged or corrosion-prone.

One sign of a damaged switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This can be caused by various factors that include not inserting the key correctly or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's also common for people to mistake their car keys with someone else's, which can result in mechanical damage.

Before contacting a locksmith, you can try a few things. First, ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no other electrical issues in the system. Also, you should verify the voltage of every component to make sure they're providing enough power. Once you've completed these steps, you can begin troubleshooting.

Luckily the ignition switch is easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of metal that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to push the pin into. This can be anything from paintbrush handles to Kabob skewer. However, you should stay clear of any brittle material that could break within the hole.

Remove any trim pieces that are covering the area around the switch once you're ready to get started. After that take off and loosen any screws that are holding the switch in place, and then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you might also need to disconnect the wires that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own it will explain exactly how to do this.

It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by a professional in the event that it isn't working. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch, without disabling the steering column. This could result in an accidental deployment of airbags if you do it incorrectly. This is why it's often best to have your locksmith take care of this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

If you can't turn the ignition key or your car won't start, the problem could be related to any number of components of your vehicle's ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system works to be able to spot issues and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is an electric switch that has multiple poles and is operated by a key. It has four positions: off, accessory, run and "lock." When the switch is in the lock position (which usually has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start the engine.

To determine whether the ignition switch is bad or if the ignition coil is bad, you must conduct a quick electrical test with a voltage meter. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage falls below that, it indicates there's an open circuit in the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or even the ignition coil itself.

Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure no other components interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and place 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 voltage gauge shows "open" or doesn't show any voltage it's time to replace the switch.

If you're replacing the switch, make sure to use a brand new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run correctly. When you replace the switch, ensure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. In the event of a collision, they'll get stuck and your engine won't run. You'll need to take off the steering wheel and gear selector in certain 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 irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've sifted through the battery, wiring and ignition switch but you can't get your car start, it might be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the piece that holds the key. It is mechanically connected to the steering lock to ensure that burglars won't be able to drive the car if it's not there.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you might notice that the key won't turn. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder are stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which may cause your car not to start. The cylinder could also be loose, but a tap with the tack hammer may aid in releasing it. Just be careful not to crush the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is correctly inserted before tapping.

Another indication that your cylinder is failing is when you have to jiggle the key and try multiple positions before it begins. This is a bad indication and should be addressed immediately, as it will continue to get worse as time passes.

To test the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover on your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as should the metal ignition lock repair near me cylinder. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able to bring your original ignition cylinder and switch to a locksmith for reuse as long as they're in good working order. After replacing the switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness and secure it and reattach any covers, or panels you removed.

4. Check Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the ignition system's final link. The engine will not start if the spark plug breaks. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but then run poorly. In either case, Fix Car Ignition 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 causes your engine's air and fuel mixture to start.

Be sure to wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injuries when touched with bare skin.

There may be a slight brown or gray residue on the top of the electrode if the spark plug is damaged. The electrode could also be covered with a dark coating. These deposits, or corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and sparking your engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs may 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 have to follow the proper 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 begin 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 don't see any spark, you've identified the problem. The next step is to work through the ignition chain, testing each component until you find out what's stopping the spark plugs from doing their job. All systems will get older and eventually break and this is especially relevant to ignition systems. However, regular maintenance can help reduce the wear and tear and prevent a major headache at the worst possible moment.