How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems

If your car starts and runs, but the ignition switch won't switch over the spark plugs, there may be a variety of reasons for this. Some are easy and inexpensive to fix, whereas others require special equipment and the assistance of an expert mechanic.

First, lubricate the socket of the key. You can use graphite powder or silicon aerosol spray. Also, ensure that the ignition cylinder is free of obstructions and springs that are loose.

Battery

It could be that your battery is dead if your vehicle won't start. This is a common issue that can be solved with a battery charge or a jump. If this doesn't solve the problem, it is possible that the ignition switch is not working properly. This component carries battery power to other electrical components, including the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is defective it will not allow current to flow through and the engine won't begin.

The battery is responsible for all the electrical energy that is used in your vehicle. The battery is a black, slender box that has positive (+) and negatively (-) terminals at the top. The terminals may be corroded and stop the battery from providing power to the rest the vehicle. Clean the battery's terminals by disconnection of the battery and using a wire brush to eliminate any corrosion. You can also apply baking soda as a solution to clean the terminals.

It is also possible that your car's battery is nearing the end of its life and requires replacement. A new battery will provide the right voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs. This is essential for a functioning engine.

The ignition coil is responsible for changing low voltage from the battery into high voltage that can ignite the spark plugs in your car to start the engine. If your ignition coil is not working properly and not functioning properly, it will not be able to ignite the plugs. Your engine won't start. You can test the ignition coil by checking whether there is a spark in the engine or turning the key and seeing whether the engine is turning.

You might also have to replace the starter motor. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn on your ignition, this means that the starter bearings are wearing out. This could be a costly repair ignition lock cylinder, therefore it is recommended to replace the motor of your starter early in the event that you notice signs of wear and wear. It's an easy task that requires the replacement of the bolts and a few components.

Alternator

The alternator charges your battery and powers the electrical components of your car when the engine is running. If you suspect that there is a issue with your alternator, you must first test the battery. This will allow you to determine whether your alternator is causing the battery to run out or whether your battery is simply old and needs to be replaced.

The alternator in your car also provides the power to the dash lights, windshield wipers and electric steering, power windows as well as heated seats and your radio when the vehicle is idling. A voltmeter can be utilized to determine the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery is less than 6 volts, it should be replaced or charged as soon as possible. A low or dead batteries will also prevent the starter from turning the engine on, and will require additional jumper cables to begin your vehicle.

Before you begin to dismantle the Alternator, shut off the ignition and lock all doors. Unplug the negative cable and secure it. Wear safety equipment. Consult a vehicle's specific repair manual for guidance on how to access the alternator as well as any other components you'll need to take off.

Once you've removed the belt, if the vehicle is equipped with one take off the warning light wire from the side of the alternator. This will usually connect directly to an alternator's terminal that is marked either WL or IND. Some vehicles have a separate relay to perform this function. If your warning light doesn't come on, it is likely that you have an issue with your vehicle.

It is recommended to regularly check your alternator for any indications of malfunction. You can carry out certain of these tests yourself, but it's best to bring your car into Les Schwab so that they can examine it and offer you advice from a professional. Our trained technicians can examine your battery posts, battery (the terminals marked + and +) for corrosion and fuses, relays as well as voltage output as well as cold cranking amps and more to determine what the issue is.

Starter Motor

The starter motor is an essential component of the ignition system. It turns the engine to allow air to be sucked into it and ignite the fuel. If your car isn't starting, it is often due to a problem with the starter motor. There are several ways to troubleshoot that can help you diagnose the problem and fix ignition switch it.

When you turn on your car's ignition key, a switch in the starter turns on a pinion-gear that fits into grooves in the flywheel. The pinion gear then turns the flywheel, which begins the engine. When you release the key the pinion gear retracts, and disconnects from the flywheel to prevent damage.

There are a myriad of things that can go wrong in the starter motor, such as an electrical problem in the internal windings, mechanical issues (such as teeth not connecting to the flywheel or pinion gear) or a dead battery. Often, a faulty starter motor will just sound like a dead battery; it'll make a click when it attempts to turn over the engine, but won't.

The condition of the battery and the battery's terminals will be checked by a mechanic if the starter motor doesn't work. If the battery is low or has corrosion on its terminals, it'll need to be charged or replaced.

Depending on how severe the issue is, a mechanic may also test the solenoid using a multimeter. The solenoid is a massive magnetic switch that delivers the power of the battery cables that are long and thick to the starter. This switch essentially connects the thick battery cable to windings within the starter that actually activate the electric motor as well as it pulls a rod that actuates an engaging fork which in turn pushes the gear that pinions to automatically engage with the flywheel.

Another option is to disable the ignition switch by using a jumper wire. This is a temporary option however it shouldn't be a recommendation unless you're able to do it right. You'll need to carefully route the jumper wire to battery terminals, and ensure that the switch is set to the "Start" position.

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is where you insert your key into the car. The system uses this to start the engine and send electrical current to the starter. However, it is not immune to wear like other components of the car. The switch can also become stuck in its slot or locked. It is important to regularly check it for problems so that you can take action before the car doesn't start.

If your key seems to struggle to turn or it becomes stuck in the ignition, it may have been locked. This is a typical issue for many vehicles and happens due to a lack lubrication. Using a graphite or silicone-based grease on the pin that releases the key can help. Spray some lubricant onto the ignition and then turn the key. If it's still stuck, make use of a piler or a hacksaw blade to help move it.

An ignition issue can cause a variety of other issues too. The anti-theft device may not function or the starter motor might not crank when you put in the key. It could also cause other functions to stop working or cease to function at all.

A damaged ignition may cause additional wear and tear on other components. For example, if you have a heavy keychain or a variety of items on your keychain it can strain the ignition switch when you put it in, and could increase the wear and tear on its internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations can also affect the lubricants and materials in the ignition switch.

It's important to test the replacement ignition switch prior to reassembling other parts and the steering column. Be sure that the replacement ignition switch works and that your engine starts smoothly. It is also important to confirm that the new ignition switch is compatible with the vehicle's make and model. It may be worthwhile to hire a dealership to install the ignition switch for you if aren't confident in your ability to install it. They can also test and connect any other parts or even replace them.