How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't start unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time, normal wear and tear can cause the switch to malfunction.

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

1. Make sure to check the Switch

One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It controls the time when relays are activated and deactivated through the use of bridge. It is more likely to fail since it doesn't channel full power from devices such as the starter. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.

One indication of a defective switch is difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by a variety of things that include improperly inserting the key, or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not common to see people confuse their keys with those of others. This can result in mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith you might want to try a few things. First, ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues in the system. You should also test the voltage of each component to determine if they're supplying adequate power. Once you've completed these steps, you're ready to start troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that connects everything. You'll need to use a flathead and something long enough to press the pin in. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is brittle, as it can break into the hole.

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

If the ignition switch isn't working, it's best to have it replaced by an expert. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch, without disabling your steering column. This could result in the unintentional airbag deployment in the event that you don't do it correctly. Therefore, it is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this for you.

2. Check the Wire

Your car ignition key replacement might not start if you cannot turn the ignition key or it isn't starting. This could be due to a number components in the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works can help you spot problems and make the correct repairs.

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

To determine whether the ignition switch defective or if the ignition coil itself is defective, you will need to do a quick electrical test with an voltmeter. When the ignition switch is set to run, the voltmeter should show about 12.6, If the voltage drops below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit in the system. This could be the solenoid, the battery, or the ignition coil.

Disconnect the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance mode and place one lead on one of the ignition switch's terminals. The other leads should go 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.

When you're replacing the switch, be sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run correctly. When replacing the ignition switch, be cautious not to touch the ignition cylinder pins with your tools, or they'll get stuck and the engine won't be able to start. You'll have to take off the steering wheel and the gear selector on some vehicles to gain access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and shouldn't be done unless you have an owner's guideline that says that it is safe to do so. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is possible.

3. Check the Cylinder

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

You may notice that your key will not turn if the cylinder is worn out. The pins of the cylinder may become stuck when they adapt to your key's shape. This could cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder may also be loose. A tap with the small tackhammer may help. Be sure not to mix up the springs and make sure your key is correctly inserted.

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

To examine the cylinder, you must remove the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as should the metal ignition cylinder. 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 are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness, secure it in place and reattach any covers, or panels you've removed.

4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is your ignition system's final link. The engine won't run in the event that the spark plug fails. It could be that your vehicle won't start at all or it will run badly. In either case, it is likely that one of several things are hindering or preventing electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which ignites the fuel mixture and air in your engine.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure you're working on a safe surface, employing protective gloves and tools to keep from being hit with. Spark plugs can get very hot and could cause serious injuries if handled with hands that are not protected.

When a spark plug goes bad, you may notice that the tip of the central electrode is covered with some light brown or gray residue on it. The electrode may also have an opaque coating. These deposits or fouling can hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs may be the culprit, you can test them if you remove them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. After that, you'll need to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle in order to remove the components that cover the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and then crank the engine. If they're working, you should see an intense blue spark at the point of the central electrode.

If you don't see any spark, you've found the problem. The next step is to work back through the ignition chain, testing each part until you discover what's hindering the spark plugs from performing their job. All systems wear out and eventually fail This is especially applicable to ignition systems. However, regular maintenance can slow the process down and avoid a big problem at the worst moment.