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 can cause the switch malfunction.
You can remove the trim on your steering column using specially designed tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for guidance on how to do this correctly.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, controlling the time when relays are activated and deactivated. Since it doesn't harness the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that is less likely to fail. The switch can still be damaged or corroded.
One indication of a defective switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This could be due to a variety of things such as incorrectly inserting the key or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon to see people confuse their keys with those of others. This can cause mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't working there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll want to ensure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any other electrical issues in the system. You should also check the voltage of every component to ensure that they are providing enough power. Once you've completed these steps, you're ready to start troubleshooting.
Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round component that connects everything. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to press the pin into. This could be anything from paintbrush handles to Kabob skewer. However, it is best to avoid any brittle material that could break inside the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you're ready to work. After removing the trim pieces, remove any screws that are holding the switch in place. Then carefully take it off. Depending on the model, you might also have to unplug any wires connected to it. Find out how to do it in the manual of your vehicle.
mobile ignition lock repair services to get the ignition switch replaced by a professional when it's not working. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column which may trigger unintentional airbag deployment if done improperly. Therefore, it's best to have your locksmith take care of this for you.
2. Check the Wiring
Your car might not start if you cannot turn the key or it isn't starting. This could be due a variety of components in the ignition system. It's crucial to understand how the ignition system functions to identify issues and make the appropriate repairs.
The ignition switch is an electrical switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start the engine.
You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch or coil. When the ignition switch is running, the voltmeter should show about 12.6, If the voltage drops below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be the solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil.
Remove the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance modes and then 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 show any voltage, you should replace the switch.
When you're replacing the switch, be certain to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. Also, when replacing the ignition switch, you must be careful not to hit the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools or they'll become stuck and your engine will not start. In certain vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and the gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and should not be done unless you have an owner's guideline that says it's safe to do so. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've worked your way through the battery, wiring and ignition switch, but cannot get your car to start, it might be time to check 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 steer the car without keys.
You may be noticing that your key does not rotate if the cylinder is worn out. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder get stuck when they adjust to the shape of your key, which could cause your car to not start. The cylinder may also be sloppy. Tapping it with a small tackhammer will help. Be careful not mixing up the springs and ensure that the key is properly inserted.
Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is if you have to turn the key and try multiple positions before it starts. This is a sign of trouble and needs to be fixed immediately, as it can only get worse with time.
To check the cylinder you'll need to take off the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be easy to take off, as will the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able to bring your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to a locksmith for reuse as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, make sure to reconnect the wiring, secure it and reattach all covers and panels that were removed.
4. Check Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. The engine cannot start if the spark plug breaks. It can be that your car will not start at all, or it will run badly. In any case, the root is likely to be one of the things that prevent or impair electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture to run.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you work on a safe surface and using gloves and tools that are protected to avoid getting zapped. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injury when touched with bare skin.
When a spark plug is bad, you may notice that the tip of the electrode's central portion has a slight brown or gray residue on it. The electrode could also be covered with an opaque coating. These deposits, also known as corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs might be the culprit, you can test them by having them remove the plugs from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. After that, you'll be required to follow the correct procedure for your car 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 should see a bright blue spark across the gap between the tip of the central electrode.
If you don't see a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to work back through the ignition chain, testing each element until you can determine what is stopping the spark plugs from performing their job. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break down over time, and this is especially true of ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the time it takes to repair and prevent a major headache in the worst case.