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 malfunction.

You can remove the steering column trim with specialized tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Check your repair manual for instructions on how to do this in a safe manner.

1. Check the Switch

One of the most frequent ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It acts as a bridge between two contacts, regulating the time when relays are activated and deactivated. Since it doesn't transmit the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter component that's less likely to fail. It is still susceptible to being damaged or corrosion-prone.

One sign of a bad switch is difficulty turning the key. This can be due to many factors that include the wrong way to insert a key, or the mechanism being worn out over time. It's not unusual for people to mix keys with those of others. This can result in mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith, you may try a few options. First, you'll want to make sure the battery is charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues within the system. Also, you should check the voltage of each component to determine if it's capable of supplying enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. You'll need to use an elongated flathead as well as something long enough to insert the pin. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to a kabob stick, but avoid anything that is brittle, as it can cause damage to the hole.

If you're ready for the work, you'll have to remove any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After this take off and loosen any screws that are holding the switch in place and then gently remove it. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. You can learn how to do this in the manual of your vehicle.

It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by a professional in the event that it isn't working. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch without removing your steering column. This could lead to the unintentional airbag being deployed if you do it incorrectly. It is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this.

2. Check the Wiring

Your car might not start if you are unable to turn the key or it will not start. This could be due to a variety of components in the Ignition Key Won't Come Out system. It's crucial to understand how the ignition system works to identify issues and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is operated by a key. It includes four positions "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is in the lock position (which usually has the red indicator) the ignition circuit is active and it's impossible to start the engine.

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

Disconnect the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Then, set the voltmeter to 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 voltmeter reads "open" or doesn't register any voltage it's time to replace the switch.

Use a brand new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure that your vehicle is running and starts correctly. Also, when replacing the auto ignition key replacement switch, be careful not to strike the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools or they'll get stuck and the engine won't start. You'll have to take off the steering wheel and the gear selector in some vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and should not be done unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do so. Otherwise, serious damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is possible.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've sifted through the battery, wiring and ignition switch, but can't get your car to start, it might be time to check the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock so that a potential thief cannot control the car without keys.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you might find that the key doesn't turn. The pins of the cylinder can get stuck when they adapt to the shape of your key. This could cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder might also be sloppy. A tap using the small tackhammer may help. Just be careful not to jumble the springs within and make sure that your key is correctly placed before tapping.

Another indication that your cylinder is in trouble is when you have to jiggle the key and try different 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 need to take off the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be easy to take off, as will the cylinder made of steel. If you don't have an additional ignition switch around, it's likely possible to take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a locksmith to reuse them, as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the panels and covers that were removed.

4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. If it fails it stops the engine from running. This can take the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but run poorly. In either case, it is likely that one of several things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the mixture of fuel and air in your engine.

Be sure to wear protective tools and gloves before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury if you touch them with your skin.

You might notice a light gray or brown fleck on the top of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. It may also have a black coating on the sides of the electrode. These deposits, or fouling, can stop high-voltage electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap and sparking your engine.

If you think that your spark plugs could be at fault You can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you will have to follow the proper procedure for your vehicle in order to remove the components that surround the plugs. After removing the plugs place them on a metal surface that is grounded and start the engine. If they're working you should see a bright blue spark on the edge of the central electrode.

If you do not detect a spark, you've identified the problem. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the ignition chain and check each component until the spark plugs are no longer working. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break down with time and this is particularly the case with ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can to slow down the process and avoid a big problem at the worst time.