How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car will not start until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to fail.

With the help of specially designed tools, you can take off the trim on your steering column and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for guidance on how to do this in a safe manner.

1. Check the Switch

One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a defective switch. It acts as bridge between two contacts, regulating when relays activate and deactivate. It is more likely to fail since it does not channel the full power of devices like the starter. The switch can still be damaged or corroded.

One sign of a bad switch is difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by a variety of things that include not inserting the key correctly or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's also common for people to misplace their car keys with another's, which could result in mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you must ensure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues within the system. You should also check the voltage of every component to ensure that they are supplying enough power. Once you've completed these steps, it's now time to begin troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round component that holds everything together. You'll need to use a flathead and a piece of material long enough for you to press the pin in. You can use anything from a paintbrush to kabob stick, but avoid anything that is hard as it could cause damage to the hole.

If you're ready for the work, you'll need to remove any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After you've removed the trim pieces remove any screws that are holding the switch in place. Then, gently remove it. Depending on the model, you may be required to disconnect any wires connected to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own, this will tell you exactly how to do this.

It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by an expert if it doesn't work. Replacing it can involve disabling the steering column, which could trigger an unintentional airbag deployment if it's done incorrectly. It's best to let your local locksmith take care of this.

2. Check the Wiring

The car may not start if it is difficult to turn the key or if it isn't starting. This could be due to any number of components within the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you identify problems and make the correct repairs.

The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is operated by a key. It has four positions, which include "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is locked (which is typically shown by a red light), the ignition circuit is activated and it is inaccessible to start your car.

To determine whether the ignition switch is defective or if the ignition coil itself is bad, you need to do a quick electrical test using an voltmeter. The voltmeter should read around 12.6 volts when the ignition lock repair near me switch is in the running position. If the voltage falls below that, it indicates there's an open circuit within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or at the ignition coil itself.

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

Use a brand new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure that your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the ignition switch, you must be careful not to strike the ignition cylinder pins with your tools, or they'll get stuck and your engine won't start. In some vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and the gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and isn't recommended until you have an owner's manual that says it's safe. If you don't you could cause serious 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 still cannot get your car started it could be time to examine the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is connected to the steering wheel lock so a would-be thief can't drive the car without the key.

If your cylinder has started to wear out, you could find that the key doesn't turn. The pins in the cylinder may become stuck as they adjust to the shape of your key. This can cause your car 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 ensure that your key is correctly installed.

Another sign that your cylinder is in trouble is if you have to turn the key and try different positions before it begins. This is a red flag and should be addressed immediately, as it can only get worse with time.

To examine the cylinder, you must remove the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as well as the cylinder made of steel. If you don't have a spare switch, you might be able to take your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to locksmiths for reuse so long as they're in good working order. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you connect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the covers and panels you took off.

4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the ignition system's final link. The engine cannot start in the event that the spark plug fails. It can be that your car will not start at all, or it will run badly. In either case, it is likely that one or more 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 that you work on a level surface and using protective gloves and tools to keep from getting zapped. Spark plugs can be very hot and cause serious injuries if they are touched by hands without gloves.

You might notice a light brown or gray residue on the edge of the electrode when the spark plug is damaged. It could also have a black layer on the side of the electrode. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could prevent high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap between your spark plug and igniting an engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs might be the cause You can test them by having them remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire and following the appropriate procedure for your vehicle to remove any components that are covering the spark plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded and begin the engine. If they're good you will be able to see a strong blue spark extending across the gap between the tip of the central electrode.

If you do not see a spark you have identified the problem. The next step is to go backwards through the chain of ignition and test each component until the spark plugs are no longer functioning. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear down and break down over time, and this is especially true of ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to reduce the time it takes to repair and prevent major problems at the worst time.