9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Fix Car Ignition

How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car will not start until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time can result in the switch not functioning properly.

Utilizing special tools, you can remove the steering column trim and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for instructions on how to do this properly.

1. Check the Switch

A bad switch is among the most common ignition issues. It controls when relays are activated and deactivated, acting as bridge. It is less likely to fail due to the fact that it does not channel the full power from devices like the starter. However, it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.

One sign of a damaged switch is a difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by various factors such as incorrectly inserting the key or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's also common for people to misplace their keys to their car with those of the keys of someone else, which can result in mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are a few things you could try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll want to make sure the battery is fully charged and there are no other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. It is also important to check the voltage of each component to see if they're capable of supplying enough power. Once you've done these steps, it's 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. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to push the pin inside. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is brittle, as it can cause damage to the hole.

Remove any trim pieces that cover the area around the switch when you are ready to get started. After this take off and loosen any screws that are holding the switch in place, and then gently remove it. Depending on the model you may have to cut off the cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do this.

If the ignition switch isn't functioning, it's best to have it replaced by an expert. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch without disabling the steering column. This could lead to the unintentional airbag deployment when you don't do it correctly. It's best to let your local locksmith handle this.

2. Check the Wiring

If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, the issue could be related to any of the parts of your car's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition lock repair system works can help you spot problems and make the necessary repairs.

The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch that can be operated by a key. It has four positions: off, accessory, run and "lock." If the switch is in the lock position (which usually has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is in operation and it's impossible to start the engine.

To determine whether the ignition switch is damaged or if the ignition coil itself is faulty, you'll have to conduct an electrical test using an Voltmeter. The voltmeter should read around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage falls below that then there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be the solenoid, battery, or the ignition coil.

Disconnect the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance mode and place one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter reads "open" or does not register any voltage, you should replace the switch.

If you're replacing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run properly. When replacing the switch, make sure not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and the engine will not run. In certain vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and the gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and isn't recommended until you have an owner's guideline that states it's safe. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is possible.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've sifted through the wiring, battery and ignition switch and still can't get your car to start, it may be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the component that holds the key and is mechanically attached to the steering lock so that a would-be burglar can't drive the car without it.

You may observe that your key will not turn if the cylinder has worn out. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder become stuck when they adjust to the shape of your key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder may also be sloppy. Tapping it with the tackhammer can aid. Just be careful not to jumble the springs within and make sure that your key is properly inserted before tapping.

If you have to jiggle and move your key around before it will begin, this is another indication that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a red flag and needs to be fixed immediately, as it can only get worse with time.

To test the cylinder, you will need to remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. Then, you'll be able pull out the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder made of metal. If you don't have an extra ignition switch lying around, it's possible to take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith and reuse them as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you connect the wiring and secure it before reattaching the panels and covers that were removed.

4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. The engine will not run if the spark plug breaks. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but not run well. In either case, the reason is likely to be one of the things that prevent or impair electricity from crossing the spark plug gap, which allows your engine's gas and fuel mixture to run.

Make sure you wear protective tools and gloves before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injuries when you touch them with bare skin.

When a spark plug is bad, you might be able to see that the top of the central electrode has a slight brown or gray substance on it. It could also have a black coating on the side of the electrode. These deposits or fouling can stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and starting an engine.

If you think that your spark plugs may be to blame you can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil and the plug wire. Then, you'll have to follow the proper procedure for your vehicle to remove the components that cover the plugs. Once you have removed the plugs you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and crank the engine. If they're working you will see a bright blue spark extending across the gap at the tip of the central electrode.

If you don't see a spark you have identified the problem. The next step is to work back through the ignition system chain, testing each element until you discover what's stopping the spark plugs from performing their job. All systems wear out and eventually fail, and this is particularly true for ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and avoid a major headache at the worst time.