How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't begin until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time may cause the switch malfunction.

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

1. Check the Switch

A bad switch is one of the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It regulates the moment relays are activated, and deactivated by acting as a bridge. Because it doesn't channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a less powerful component that's less likely fail. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.

A bad switch can be identified by a difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by many things that include improperly inserting the key, or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It is also common for people to misplace their car keys with the keys of someone else, which can result in mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith, you may try a few options. First, you'll need to ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues in the system. You should also examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are providing enough power. Once you've done these steps, it's now time to start troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to press the pin into. It could be anything from paintbrush handles to Kabob skewer, but it is best to avoid anything that is brittle and break within the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you're ready to go. After removing the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in position. Then carefully take it off. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own and model, it will show you exactly how to do this.

If the ignition switch isn't working it's recommended to replace it by a professional. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without removing your steering column. This could result in an accidental airbag deployment when you don't do it correctly. Therefore, it is recommended to let the locksmith in your area handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

Your car might not start if you cannot turn the key or if it isn't starting. This could be due a number of components within the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions will help you identify problems and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is turned by the key. It has four positions, which include "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is in the lock position (which usually has the red indicator), the ignition circuit is in operation and it's not possible to start the engine.

To determine whether the ignition switch damaged or if the ignition coil itself is defective, you will must conduct a quick electrical test using a voltage meter. If the ignition switch is set to run at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read approximately 12.6, If the voltage drops below that, it means there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or even the ignition coil itself.

Disconnect the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Then, set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and place one lead on one of the ignition lock repair switch terminals. The other lead should go to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltmeter reads "open" or fails to detect any voltage, you must replace the switch.

When replacing the switch, be sure to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. When replacing the switch, be sure not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and the engine will not run. In some vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and the gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and is not recommended unless you have an owner's guideline that says that it is safe to do so. If you don't, it is possible to cause irreparable 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 you are still unable to get your car started it could be time to inspect the cylinder. The cylinder is the component which holds the key and is mechanically linked to the steering lock to ensure that thieves can't drive the car if it's not there.

You might observe that your key will not turn if the cylinder has worn out. Sometimes, the pins inside the cylinder become stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which may cause your car not to start. Or, the cylinder might be shaky and a tap using the tack hammer may assist in releasing it. Be careful not to mix with the springs and ensure that the key is properly installed.

If you need to move the key before it will start, this is another indication that your cylinder has gone bad. This is a sign of trouble and must be addressed immediately, since 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 take off, as will the cylinder made of steel. If you don't have an additional ignition switch around, it's likely possible that you can 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 make sure to reconnect the wiring, secure it and reattach the panels and covers that you took off.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is your lost ignition key system's final link. When it breaks it will stop the engine from running. It could be that your vehicle won't start at all or it will run poorly. In either case, it is likely that one of several things are hindering or preventing the flow of electricity across spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the air and fuel mixture in your engine.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you work on a safe surface, using gloves and tools that are protected to avoid getting zapped. Spark plugs can be very hot and cause serious injuries if they are touched with bare hands.

When a spark plug goes bad, you might notice that the tip of the electrode's central portion has some light brown or gray substance on it. The electrode could also be covered with a dark coating. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you suspect that your spark plugs are at fault, you can test them by removing them from their tube inside the Ignition Key Won't Come Out coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil and the plug wire. Then, you'll have to follow the proper procedure for your vehicle in order to take off the components that are covering the plugs. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and crank the engine. If they're working you should see a strong blue spark crossing the gap at the tip of the central electrode.

If you do not see a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go back through the ignition chain, testing each part until you find out what's hindering the spark plugs from doing their job. It's important to remember that all systems wear out and break down over time and this is particularly the case with ignition systems. Regular maintenance can slow down the process and prevent a major headache in the worst case.