How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems

If your vehicle starts and runs but the ignition switch doesn't turn on the spark plugs, there could be a myriad of reasons. Some are simple and inexpensive to fix, while others require specialized tools and assistance from a mechanic.

The first step is to lubricate the socket that holds the key. You can make use of graphite powder or silicon spray. Also, make sure the ignition cylinder is free of any obstructions and loose springs.

Battery

If your car doesn't start it could be due to the battery being dead. This is a frequent issue that can be solved with a jump or charging of the battery. If this does not solve the issue, it's likely that your ignition switch is defective. This component is responsible for transferring battery power to other electrical components such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is defective, it will not allow current to flow through, and the engine will not start.

The battery is the source of all the electrical energy you use in your car. It's a dark box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals that are on the top. The terminals could become corroded and prevent the battery from supplying electricity to the rest of the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery you can make use of a wire bristle to remove any corrosion. You can also use baking soda as a solution to clean the terminals.

It is also possible that your car's battery is nearing the end of its life and needs to be replaced. A new battery will supply the right voltage to your vehicle’s spark plugs. This is necessary for a functioning engine.

The ignition coil is responsible for converting low voltage from the battery into high voltage that will spark your car's spark plugs to start the engine. If the ignition coil is damaged and is not in a position to ignite the plugs and the engine won't start. The ignition coil can be checked by checking the engine for sparks or turning the key to determine whether it spins.

You may need to replace the starter motor as well. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn the ignition key, this means that the starter bearings are worn out. It can be an expensive repair, so it's best to replace your starter motor as soon as you notice signs of wear. Changing the starter motor is an easy process that requires replacing the bolts and a few components.

Alternator

The alternator is the one that charges your battery and powers the electrical parts of your car while the engine is running. Examine the battery first if you suspect that your alternator is malfunctioning. This will allow you to determine if your alternator draining the battery, or if your battery is old and requires replacement.

Your car's alternator also supplies power for the dashboard lights, windshield wipers as well as electric steering, power windows heated seats, and your radio even when the vehicle is idling. A voltmeter is a tool to check the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery's voltage is lower than 6 volts it should be replaced or charged right away. A dead or weak battery can also stop the starter motor from cranking the engine and will require more jumper cables to start your car.

Before you begin dismantling the alternator, switch off the ignition and lock all doors. You should also disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away in a safe place and put on your safety gear. Consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for instructions on how to remove the alternator, or any other component.

Once you've removed the belt, if your vehicle has one take off the warning light wire from the back of the alternator. This wire will connect directly to an alternator terminal identified WL or IN. Some vehicles have a separate relay that can perform this function. If your warning light does a new ignition switch require a new key not blink, it's likely to be a different issue.

The alternator is a crucial part of your vehicle, and you must check it frequently to look for signs of problems. While you can perform some of the tests yourself, it's best to bring your vehicle into Les Schwab for a complimentary inspection and expert advice. Our certified technicians will test your battery posts, battery (the terminals that are marked + and +) for corrosion relays, fuses and voltage output and cold cranking amps, and more to determine what the problem is.

Starter Motor

The starter motor is an important component of the ignition system. It is responsible for turning the engine so that it can take into air, which is required to ignite the fuel. It is quite common for the starter motor to be at fault when your car won't turn over. There are many methods of troubleshooting that can be used to help you diagnose and fix the issue.

When you turn the key in the ignition of your vehicle, a switch in the starter engages with a pinion gear that fits into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear then turns the flywheel, which then begins the engine. The pinion gear retracts when you remove the key, thereby preventing damage.

The starter motor could be affected by a variety of factors, including a mechanical problem (such as teeth not lining up on the flywheel) or a dead cell. A damaged starter motor could sound like a dead cell phone battery. It can make a clunk sound as it attempts to turn the engine over.

If the starter motor doesn't work, one of the first things a mechanic should examine is the condition of charge of the battery and its terminals. If the battery is depleted or has corrosion on its terminals, it will need to be charged or replaced.

Depending on how severe the problem is, the mechanic may also test the solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid, which is a large magnet switch, transmits an energy surge from the battery cables to the starter. This switch basically connects the thick battery cable to the windings inside the starter that actually activate the electric motor, plus it pushes a rod that actuates an engaging fork which is then pushed by the pinion gear to automatically engage with the flywheel.

Another option is to disable the ignition switch using an extension wire. This is only a temporary fix, and you should not try it unless certain of the procedure. You'll need to be careful to connect your jumper wires the battery terminals, and then make sure that the switch is in the "Start position".

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is where you insert your keys into the car. This will enable electrical flow to your starter and start up the engine, however it isn't immune to wear and tear like other car ignition switch repair parts. The switch could also become stuck in its slot or become locked. You should check for problems frequently to be able to act before your car doesn't start.

It is possible that your key was locked if the key is difficult to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition. This issue occurs in a variety of vehicles due to a lack grease. You can use a silicone or graphite-based grease to lubricate the release pin. Spray a bit of it into the ignition, and then try moving the key. If it's still stuck, employ a piler or hacksaw blade to help move it.

A problem with the ignition could lead to other problems. The anti-theft feature could not work or the starter motor may not turn on when you insert the key. It can also cause auxiliary functions to cease functioning or cease to function at all.

A damaged ignition switch could also leave you with lots of wear and tear on other parts. If you have keys that have multiple items, or a large one, this can cause strain on the ignition switch, which can cause wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the materials and lubricants in the ignition switch.

It is important to test the new ignition switch prior to assembling the other components and the steering column. Make sure the replacement ignition switch is working and that your engine starts smoothly. Make sure that the new ignition switch with the vehicle's model and model. It may be worthwhile to get a dealership to install the ignition switch for you if are not confident about your ability to do so. They can also test and connect other components or even replace them.