How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems

If your car starts and runs, but the ignition switch isn't able to turn on the spark plugs, it could be a variety of causes. Some are simple and inexpensive to fix, others require specialized tools and assistance from a mechanic.

Lubricate the socket before you use it. You can use graphite powder or a silicon spray. Also, make sure the ignition cylinder is free of obstructions and loose springs.

Battery

If your car isn't starting it could be due to the battery being dead. This is a common problem which can be fixed with charging the battery or making a jump. If this doesn't fix the problem, it is possible that the ignition switch is bad. This component is responsible for transferring power from the battery to other electrical components such as the starter motor as well as the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is damaged it will not allow current to flow through and the engine won't start.

The battery is the source of all electrical energy in your vehicle. The battery is a black box with positive (+) and negatively (-) terminals on the top. The terminals can become corroded and prevent the battery from providing power to the rest the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery, you can employ a wire bristle remove any corrosion. You can also use baking soda as a solution to clean the terminals.

The battery in your car could be nearing the end of its lifespan and will require replacement. A new battery will supply the proper voltage to the spark plugs in your vehicle, which is required for a properly working engine.

The ignition coil is responsible for converting low voltage from the battery into high voltage that can ignite your car's spark plugs to start the engine. If the ignition coil is damaged, it won't be capable of sparking the plugs and your engine won't start. You can test the ignition coil by checking for a spark inside the engine or turning the key and seeing whether the engine spins.

You may have to replace the starter motor too. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn your ignition key, this means that the starter bearings are worn out. This could be a costly fix, so it's best to replace the motor of your starter early if you notice any signs of wear and tear. The replacement of the starter motor is a relatively simple process that requires replacing some bolts and parts.

Alternator

The alternator is an instrument that recharges your battery while your engine is running. It also is the power source for your car's electrical components. If you suspect a problem with your alternator you should test the battery first. This will help you determine if your alternator draining the battery, or if your battery is old and requires replacement.

While the vehicle is in idle, the alternator provides power to the dash light and radio. It also powers the windshield wipers, the power windows, the electric steering, the heated seats, and the power windows. A voltmeter can be used 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 immediately. A dead or low-volt battery will also stop the starter from turning the engine over and will require additional jumper cables to start your car.

Before you begin to dismantle the Alternator, shut off the ignition and lock all doors. You should also disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away in a safe location and put on the safety gear. Check out a repair manual that is specific to your vehicle for directions on how to remove the alternator, or any other parts.

After you've removed the belt, if the vehicle is equipped with one take off the warning light wire from the back of the alternator. This will usually connect directly to the alternator's terminal that's marked as WL or IND. Certain vehicles have an additional relay that performs this function. If your warning light does not come on, you should be able to identify a different issue.

It is recommended to regularly check your alternator for indications of a malfunction. You can do certain of these tests by yourself, however it is best to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab so they can look it over and give you expert advice. Our highly trained technicians can test your battery posts, battery (the terminals marked + and -) for corrosion relays, fuses and voltage output, cold cranking amps and more to determine what the issue is.

Starter Motor

The starter motor is an essential element of the ignition system. It is responsible for turning the engine to suck into air, which is required to ignite the fuel. If your car isn't starting, it is often due to a problem with the starter motor. There are several ways to troubleshoot to help you determine the problem and fix it.

When you turn on your car's ignition key, a switch inside the starter turns on a pinion-gear that fits into grooves of the flywheel. The pinion gear turns the flywheel, which then starts the engine. When you release the key the pinion gear retracts, and disengages from the flywheel, thereby preventing damage.

There are a myriad of things that could cause problems in the starter motor, including an electrical failure in the internal windings, a mechanical issue (such as teeth not meshing with the flywheel or pinion gear) or a dead battery. A malfunctioning starter motor may sound like a dead phone battery. It will make a clicking sound as it tries to turn the engine.

The charge level and the battery's terminals will be examined by a mechanic if the starter motor doesn't work. If the battery is damaged or is low it needs to be charged or replaced.

Depending on the extent of the problem, the mechanic may also examine the solenoid of the starter with a multimeter. The solenoid, which is a large magnet switch, transmits an energy surge from the battery cables to the starter. This switch connects the bulky cable from the battery to starter's windings which turn the motor. It also pulls a rod to actuate an engaging fork, which causes the pinion to automatically engage with the flywheel.

A jumper wire can be used to disable the ignition. This is an interim solution that you should not attempt it unless you are sure how to do it. You'll need to be careful to route your jumper wires to the battery terminals, and make sure that the switch is in the "Start position".

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is where you insert your keys into the car. The system uses this to start the engine and send electrical current to the starter. However it isn't immune to wear and tear like other parts of the car. The switch may also get stuck in its slot or get locked. It's important to check it frequently for problems so that you can act before the car stops working.

If your key is a struggle to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition, it might be locked. This is a problem that occurs in a variety of vehicles due to a lack grease. You can make use of a graphite or silicone-based grease to lubricate the release pin. Spray a bit of it into the ignition and key replacement, and then try moving the key. If you're stuck you can try using a piler or hacksaw blade.

An ignition and key replacement issue could cause a host of other issues, too. The anti-theft system might not function, or the starter motor may not start when you plug the key in. It can also cause auxiliary functions to cease functioning or not work at all.

A malfunctioning ignition switch could cause a lot of extra wear and tear on other components. For instance, if have a heavy keychain or a variety of items on your keychain it could put strain on the ignition switch when you plug it in, and could increase the wear on its internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch.

It is important to test the new ignition switch prior to assembling the other parts and the steering column. Make sure that the switch is working and that the engine starts without any issues. It is also important to confirm that the new ignition switch is compatible with your vehicle's model and model. It could be worth it to get a dealership to install the ignition switch for you if aren't confident in your ability to install it. They can also test and connect other parts or even replace them.