How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car will not start unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time may result in the switch not functioning properly.
You can remove the steering column trim with special tools to access the ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair manual for guidance on how to do this in a safe manner.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
One of the most frequent ignition problems is a bad switch. It functions as bridge between two contacts, regulating when relays activate and deactivate. Because it isn't able to channel the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter component that is less likely to fail. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corroded.
One sign of a damaged switch is a difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by a variety of things that include incorrectly inserting the key or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's also commonplace for people to misplace their keys to their car with those of another's, which could cause mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith, you can try a few things. First, ensure that the battery is charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues within the system. car ignition switch replacement is also important to verify the voltage of every component to make sure they're providing enough power. Once you've done these steps, it's now time to start troubleshooting.
Fortunately, the ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that holds everything together. You'll need an elongated flathead as well as something that is long enough to press the pin in. It could be anything from a paintbrush handle to a kabob skewer, but it is best to avoid any brittle material that could break inside the hole.
Once you're ready to complete the job, you'll need to remove any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After that, loosen and remove any screws that are holding the switch in place and then gently pull it out. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. Find out how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
It's best to get the ignition switch replaced by a professional in the event that it isn't working. The replacement process involves turning off the steering column, which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it's done improperly. Therefore, it is recommended to let your locksmith take care of this for you.
2. Verify the Wire
If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, your issue could be related to any number of components of your vehicle's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions can help you spot problems and make the correct repairs.
The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by the key. It has four positions including off run, accessory, and "lock." If the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by the red light) the ignition circuit is activated and it is impossible to start your car.
You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch or coil. When the ignition switch is running, the voltmeter should show approximately 12.6, If the voltage is below that then there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the ignition coil itself.
Remove the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Then, set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance mode and put one lead on one of the ignition switch's terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or does not register any voltage, it is recommended to replace the switch.
When you're changing the switch, make sure to use a brand new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. When you replace the switch, be sure not to strike the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and your engine will not run. You'll have to take off the steering wheel and gear selector in certain vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and is not recommended unless you have an owner's manual that states it's safe to do so. If you don't you could cause serious damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've gone through the wiring, battery, and ignition switch and still cannot get your car to start, it might be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the part which holds the key and is mechanically attached to the steering lock to ensure that burglars won't be able to drive the car without it.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. The pins of the cylinder can get stuck when they adapt to the shape of your key. This can cause your car to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be loose and a tap using the tack hammer may help to free it. Just be careful not to crush the springs within and make sure that your key is properly placed before tapping.
If you are required to jiggle and move your key before it can begin, this is another indication that your cylinder has been damaged. This is a sign of trouble and needs to be fixed immediately, since it will only get worse over time.
To check the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery and remove the cover on your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. You'll then be able to pull out the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have a spare ignition switch lying around, it's likely possible to take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith in order to reuse them as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the panels and covers that you removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is your ignition system's last link. If it fails it will stop the engine from running. This can take the form of your car not starting at all, or may start but run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one of several factors are hindering or blocking electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the air and fuel mixture inside your engine.
Be sure to use gloves and protective tools before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be extremely hot and can cause serious injuries if touched by hands without gloves.
When a spark plug goes bad, you may be able to see that the top of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. The electrode could also be covered with a dark layer. These deposits, also known as fouling, can stop high-voltage electricity from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.
If you think that your spark plugs could be to blame, you can test them by taking them from their tube 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. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and then crank the engine. If they are working, you should see a bright blue spark on the tip of central electrode.
If you don't see a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go back through the ignition chain, testing each component until you can determine what is blocking the spark plugs from performing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually fail, and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can help reduce the wear and tear and avoid a major headache at the worst possible time.