How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't start unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to fail.

Utilizing specially designed tools, you can take off the trim on your steering column and Fix Car Ignition gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it correctly.

1. Check the Switch

A malfunctioning switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It acts as an intermediary between two contacts, regulating the relays' activation and deactivation. Because it isn't able to harness the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that is less likely to fail. The switch can still be damaged or corroded.

One indication of a defective switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This could be due to many things that include not inserting the key correctly or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's also common for people to mix up their keys to their car with those of the keys of someone else, which can result in mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith, you might want to try a few things. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any electrical issues within the system. You should also examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are sufficient power. Once you've completed these steps, you're ready to start troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of equipment that connects everything. You'll need a flathead and a piece of material long enough for you to press the pin in. You can use anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but be careful of anything brittle as it could break into the hole.

When you're ready to do the work, you'll have to remove any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After taking off the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in position. Then, carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may also have to unplug any wires that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own and model, it will show you exactly how to do this.

It is recommended to have the ignition lock repair services switch replaced by a professional if it doesn't work. Replacing it can involve turning off the steering column, which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it's done in a wrong manner. It is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this.

2. Check the Wire

If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car isn't starting, your issue could be related to any number of components of your vehicle's ignition system. It is important to know how the ignition system functions so that you can pinpoint issues and make the necessary repairs.

The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is turned by the key. It has four positions, which include "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is in the lock position (which usually has a red indicator) the ignition circuit is active and it's not possible to start the engine.

You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch or ignition coil. When the ignition switch is set to run and the voltmeter is reading about 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that then there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or even the ignition coil itself.

Disconnect the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter on the continuity or resistance modes and place one lead onto one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should go to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltmeter is "open" or does not register any voltage, it is recommended to replace the switch.

If you're replacing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your car ignition switch will run and start correctly. When you replace the switch, ensure not to strike the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. In the event of a collision, they'll become stuck and the engine won't run. You'll have to take off the steering wheel and gear selector on some vehicles to get access to the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and is not recommended unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do this. If you don't 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 may be time to check the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key, and is mechanically connected to the lock on the steering wheel so that a potential thief cannot steer the car without a key.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you may find that the key doesn't turn. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder get stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder could also be loose, but a tap with the tack hammer may help to free it. Be careful not to jumble the springs in the cylinder and ensure that the key is correctly placed before tapping.

Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is when you need to jiggle the key and try multiple positions before it gets started. This is a sign of trouble and should be addressed immediately, as it can only get worse with time.

To examine the cylinder, you must remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. You should then be able pull out the old ignition switch and the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have an additional ignition switch around, it's likely possible to take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith in order to reuse them as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring, secure it and reattach all covers and panels that you removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition system chain. If it fails it will stop the engine from running. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but then run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one of several things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which ignites the air and fuel mixture within your engine.

Make sure you wear protective tools and gloves before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injuries if you touch them with your skin.

When a spark plug goes bad, you may observe that the edge of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. It could also have a black layer on the opposite side of the electrode. These deposits, also known as fouling, may prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the spark plug gap and igniting your engine.

If you think that your spark plugs may be at fault you can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you'll be required to follow the correct procedure for your car to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded. Then start the engine. If they're working you will be able to see a strong blue spark extending across the gap at the tip of the central electrode.

If you aren't seeing a spark, you've identified the issue. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the chain of ignition and check each component until the spark plugs are no longer functioning. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break down over time and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to reduce the time it takes to repair and avoid major problems at the worst possible time.