How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems

There are a variety of reasons your car might start and run but the ignition fails to turn on the spark plugs. Some are simple and cheap to fix, while others require special equipment and the help of mechanics.

First, you need to lubricate the socket that holds the key. You can apply graphite powder or a silicon aerosol spray. Also, ensure that the ignition cylinder is free of any obstructions and loose springs.

Battery

If your car won't start, it could be because your battery is dead. This is a frequent issue that can be fixed by a jump or charging of the battery. If this doesn't fix the issue, it's possible that your ignition switch is bad. The switch is the one that supplies battery power to other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is defective, it won't allow current to flow through, and the engine won't start.

The battery is the main source of the electrical energy you use in your vehicle. The battery is a black, slender box that has positive (+) and negatively (-) terminals on the top. The terminals can be damaged, preventing the battery from supplying power to the rest the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery you can make use of a wire bristle to remove any corrosion. You can also clean the terminals using baking soda as a solution.

It is also possible that your car's battery is at the end of its lifespan and requires replacement. A new battery will provide the proper voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs. This is necessary to ensure that your engine is running properly.

The ignition coil converts low voltage from your battery into high voltage that causes the spark plugs in your car, and to start the engine. If the ignition coil is damaged it will not be capable of sparking the plugs and the engine won't start. You can test the ignition coil by checking for a spark in the engine or turning the key and seeing if the engine turns over.

It is possible to replace the starter motor too. If you hear a grating sound when you turn on your ignition, it's a sign that the bearings within the starter are starting to wear out. It is a costly repair, so it is recommended to replace your starter motor when you begin to detect signs of wear. The starter motor can be changed by replacing the bolts and components.

Alternator

The alternator is the one that charges your battery and powers the electrical components of your car while the engine is running. Test the battery first if you suspect your alternator may be malfunctioning. This will allow you to determine if the alternator is draining the battery or if the battery is old and needs replacement.

While the vehicle is in idle, the alternator provides power to the dash light and radio. It also provides power to the windshield wipers, the power windows, the electric steering, the heated seats, and the power windows. You can use a voltmeter test your battery and alternator for proper voltage levels. If your battery is less than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged immediately. Batteries that are dead or not charged will also stop the starter from turning the engine on and will require additional jumper cables in order to start your car.

Before you begin dismantling the alternator, ensure that the ignition is off and all doors are locked. You should also disconnect the negative cable from the battery, and then put it away in a safe location and put on your safety equipment. Refer to a repair manual specific to your vehicle for instructions on how to remove the alternator, or any other parts.

If your vehicle is equipped with a warning light wire, you can disconnect it from the back of the generator after removing the belt. This wire will connect directly to an alternator connector that is marked WL or IN. Certain vehicles have a separate relay that can perform this function. If your warning light does not appear, it is likely that there is a different issue.

It is recommended to regularly check your alternator for indications of malfunction. You can carry out some of these checks yourself, but it's best to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab so that they can inspect it and offer you advice from a professional. Our technicians will test for corrosion on your battery posts, battery (+ and -), fuses, relays as well as voltage output and cold starting amps and more.

Starter Motor

The starter motor is an important component of the ignition system. It rotates the engine so that air can be sucked into it and ignite the fuel. It is quite common that the starter motor will be the cause when your car won't turn over. There are a number of ways to troubleshoot to help you determine the issue and resolve it.

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

The starter motor can be affected by a number of things, including mechanical problems (such as teeth that don't mesh on the flywheel) or dead cells. A malfunctioning starter motor may sound like a dead cell phone battery. It will make a clicking sound when it tries to turn the engine.

The condition of the battery and the terminals of the battery will be examined by a mechanic in the event that the starter motor does not work. If the battery is low or has corrosion on its terminals it will require charging or replaced.

Depending on the severity of the issue, the mechanic could test the solenoid on the starter using a multimeter. The solenoid is a massive magnetic switch that transmits the power of the battery cables that are long and thick to the starter. This switch basically connects the thick battery cable to the windings inside the starter that make the electric motor turn as well as it pulls the rod, which turns an engaging fork, which will then push the gear that pinions to automatically engage with the flywheel.

A jumper wire can be used to disable the ignition. This is a temporary option however it shouldn't be a recommendation unless you're able to perform it correctly. You'll need to carefully route the jumper wire to battery terminals and make sure the switch is in the "Start" position.

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is where you insert your car key. This allows the system to allow electrical flow to the starter and then start the engine, however it isn't immune to wear and tear as other parts of your car. The switch may also get stuck inside its slot or be locked. You should check for problems regularly to identify the problem before the car stops working.

It is possible that your key was locked if the key is difficult to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition. This is a common problem for a variety of vehicles and occurs due to a lack lubrication. Using some graphite or silicone-based lubricant on the release pin can help. Spray a small amount into the ignition and then try moving the key. If you're stuck then try using a piler or hacksaw blade.

A problem with the auto locksmith ignition replacement can cause a variety of other issues, too. The anti-theft feature may stop working or the starter motor may not be able to turn on when you insert the key. This can cause auxiliary functions to stop working or stop functioning.

A failing ignition can also cause extra wear and tear on other components. If you own a keychain with multiple items, or a bulky one, it can cause strain on the ignition switch and accelerate wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the lubricants and materials in the ignition switch.

If you've purchased a replacement ignition switch, it's important to test it before reassembling the steering column and other parts. Be sure that the replacement ignition switch works and that your engine is running smoothly. Make sure that the new ignition switch with the vehicle's model and make. If you're not sure of your ability to install the new lost ignition key switch it could be worth employing a dealership service shop to install it for you. They can also test and connect other components or replace them.