How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

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

You can remove the steering column trim with specially designed tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Check the repair manual to get guidance on how to do this correctly.

1. Check the Switch

One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It controls when relays are activated and deactivated through the use of bridge. Because it doesn't transmit the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter component that is less likely to fail. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone.

One sign of a damaged switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This can be caused by many factors such as incorrectly inserting a key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's also common for people to mix up their keys to their car with the keys of someone else, which can result in mechanical damage.

Before contacting a locksmith ignition replacement cost, you can try a few things. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no electrical issues with the system. Also, you should verify the voltage of every component to ensure that they are sufficient power. Once you've done these steps, it's time to begin troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that holds everything together. You'll need to use a flathead and a piece of material long enough to push the pin into. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to kabob stick, but avoid anything that is hard as it could be broken into the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that are covering the area around the switch once you're ready to get started. After you've removed the trim pieces remove any screws that are holding the switch in position. Then, gently take it off. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. You can learn how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.

If the ignition switch isn't functioning, it's best to have it replaced by a professional. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch without disabling your steering column. This could result in an unintentional airbag deployment when you don't do it correctly. This is why it is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

Your car might not start if you cannot turn the key or it isn't starting. This could be due to a variety of components in the ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions so that you can pinpoint issues and make the necessary repairs.

The ignition switch is an electric switch that has multiple poles and is controlled by the key. It has four positions including off run, accessory, and "lock." When the switch is locked (which is usually shown by the red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is impossible to start your vehicle.

You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch and ignition coil. When the ignition switch is running and the voltmeter is reading about 12.6, If the voltage falls below that, it indicates there's an open circuit within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or the ignition coil itself.

Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure no other components can interfere with the test. Then you should set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance mode and put one lead on one of the ignition switch's terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage gauge reads "open" or does not register any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.

Make sure you use a new ignition key and high-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle is running and starts correctly. When replacing the switch, be sure not to strike the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and the engine won't be able to run. In certain vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and gear selector in order to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and should not be done unless you have an owner's guideline that says it's safe to do this. Otherwise serious damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is likely.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch but you are still unable to get your car to start It could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the piece that holds the key and is mechanically attached to the steering lock to ensure that thieves can't drive the car without it.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you may notice that the key won't turn. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder are stuck when they adjust to the shape of your key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder might also be sloppy. A tap with a small tackhammer will aid. Be careful not mixing with the springs and ensure that the key is properly inserted.

Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is if you have to turn the key and try multiple positions before it starts. This is a negative sign and should be corrected right away as it will only get worse over time.

To check the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover from your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as should the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have an additional ignition switch around, it's likely that you could take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith and reuse them, as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder, make sure you connect the wiring harness, secure it in place and then reattach any covers or panels you removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the ignition system's final link. The engine will not run if the spark plug breaks. It could be that your car will not start at all, or it will run badly. In any case, the root is likely to be one of a few factors that block or hinder electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap which causes your engine's air and fuel mixture to run.

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

You may notice a light brown or gray residue on the top of the electrode when a spark plug is bad. The electrode could also have a dark layer. These deposits or fouling can hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap between your spark plug and igniting an engine.

If you think that your spark plugs may be to blame, you can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. Then, you'll be required 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 begin the engine. If they're good you should be able to see a strong blue spark crossing the gap at the tip of the central electrode.

If you do not see a spark you have found the issue. The next step is to go back through the ignition system chain, Fix Car Ignition testing each element until you find out what's stopping the spark plugs from doing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually fail and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can help to slow down the process and avoid a major headache at the worst time.