How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

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

You can remove the steering column trim using specially designed tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it correctly.

1. Make sure to check the Switch

One of the most frequent ignition issues is a defective switch. It regulates the time when relays are activated and deactivated by acting as a bridge. Because it isn't able to channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that's less likely fail. However it's still possible for the switch to become damaged or corrosion-prone.

A defective switch is recognized by a slow time turning the key. This can be due to many factors, including the wrong way to insert a key, or the mechanism being worn out over time. It's not unusual for people to mix their keys up with those of others. This could cause mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll want to make sure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any other electrical issues in the system. Also, you should check the voltage of each component to determine if it's capable of supplying enough power. Once you've done these steps, it's time to start troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver, and something that is long enough to push the pin into. You can make use of anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is hard as it could cause damage to the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that cover the area around the switch when you are ready to get started. After taking off the trim pieces, take off any screws that hold the switch in position. Then carefully remove it. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect any cables connected to it. You can find out how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.

If the ignition switch isn't functioning it's recommended to have it replaced by a professional. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch, without disabling your steering column. This could lead to an unintentional airbag deployment in the event that you don't do it correctly. This is why it's often best to have the locksmith in your area handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

If you can't turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, your issue could be related to any of the components in your car's ignition cylinder lock repair system. It's important to understand how the ignition system works to identify issues and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is an electrical switch that has multiple poles and is operated by the key. It has four positions, which include "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red), the ignition circuit is active and it's not possible to start the engine.

You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch or coil. When the ignition switch has been set to run at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read approximately 12.6, If the voltage falls below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit somewhere in the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or the ignition coil itself.

Connect the electrical connector to ensure that it doesn't interfere with the test. Then you should set the voltmeter in the resistance or continuity mode and place 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 shows "open" or does not register any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.

When you're changing the switch, make certain to use a new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your car will run and start correctly. When you replace the switch, be sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and the engine will not run. In certain vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and isn't recommended until you have an owner’s manual that says it's safe. If you do not you could cause severe damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've 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 lock on the steering wheel so that a potential thief cannot drive the car without keys.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could 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 might also be sloppy. A tap with the small tackhammer may help. Be careful not to jumble the springs inside and ensure that the key is correctly installed prior to tapping.

If you need to move the key around before it will start, this is another indication that your cylinder is become damaged. This is a bad sign and must be addressed immediately as it will only worsen over time.

To examine the cylinder, you'll need to take off the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own a spare switch, you might be able take your original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse as long as they're in good working order. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring, secure it and reattach the covers and panels were removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is your ignition system's final link. When it breaks it stops the engine from running. It could be that your Car Key Ignition Problems will not start at all or it will run badly. In either case, it's likely that one or more things are preventing or impeding the flow of electricity across spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the mixture of fuel and air inside your engine.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure you're working on a level surface and using protective gloves and tools to avoid being struck. Spark plugs can be extremely hot and can cause serious injuries if touched by hands without gloves.

When a spark plug goes bad, you might observe that the edge of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. The electrode may also have a dark coating. These deposits, also known as fouling, can stop high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.

If you suspect that your spark plugs might be the cause You could test them by remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. Then, you will have to follow the proper procedure for your vehicle in order to remove the components that cover the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded, and begin the engine. If they're working you should see a bright blue spark crossing the gap at the tip of the central electrode.

If you don't see any spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to work through the ignition chain, testing each element until you can determine what is stopping the spark plugs from performing their job. All systems get older and eventually break, and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and avoid a major headache at the worst time.