How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't begin to start until the ignition switch is sending an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time, normal wear and tear may cause the switch to malfunction.
You can remove the steering column trim with specialized tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right.
1. Check the Switch
One of the most frequent ignition problems is a bad switch. It acts as an intermediary between two contacts, and controls the relays' activation and deactivation. Since it doesn't transmit the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that's less likely to fail. The switch could still be damaged or corroded.
A bad switch is identified by a difficult time turning the key. This can be caused by various factors that include not inserting the key correctly or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not unusual for people to mix keys with keys from someone else's. This can result in mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith, you might want to try a few things. First, you'll want to make sure the battery is fully charged and that there are no other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. You should also examine the voltage of every component to determine if they're providing enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you can begin troubleshooting.
Luckily the ignition switch is pretty simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver and something that is long enough to push the pin into. You can use anything from a paintbrush, to a Kabob stick, but be careful of anything that is hard as it could be broken into the hole.
Remove any trimming pieces that cover the area around the switch once you're ready to go. After removing the trim pieces, remove any screws that are holding the switch in place. Then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may be required to disconnect any wires that connect to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle and model, it will show you exactly how to do this.
It's best to get the ignition switch replaced by a professional if it doesn't work. The replacement process involves turning off the steering column, which could trigger an unintentional airbag deployment if it's done incorrectly. Therefore, it's often best to have your locksmith take care of this for you.
2. Verify the Wire
If you are 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. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions to be able to spot problems and make the right 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 locked (which is typically shown by a red light), the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start your car.
To determine whether the ignition switch is defective or the ignition coil is bad, you have to conduct an electrical test with an voltmeter. The voltmeter should read around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the run position. If the voltage is lower than that then there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil itself.
Connect the electrical connector to ensure 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 ignition switch terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or fails to show any voltage, it is recommended to replace the switch.
When you're replacing the switch, be certain to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run properly. Also, when replacing the ignition switch, you must be careful not to strike the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools, or they'll get stuck and your engine won't be able to start. You'll need to remove the steering wheel and gear selector on some vehicles to gain access to the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and is not recommended unless you have an owner's manual that indicates that it is safe to do so. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check fix ignition switch
If you've sifted through the battery, wiring and ignition switch but cannot get your car to start, it might be time to look at the cylinder. The cylinder is the part which holds the key and is mechanically linked to the steering lock so that a would-be burglar can't drive the car without it.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you may find that the key doesn't turn. The pins inside the cylinder could become stuck as they adjust to the shape of your key. This can cause your car to not start. The cylinder might also be sloppy. A tap with the tackhammer can aid. Just be careful not to crush the springs within and make sure that your key is properly inserted before tapping.
If you have to move the key before it will begin, this is another sign that your cylinder has gone bad. This is a negative sign, and it must be fixed immediately, since it will only get worse over time.
To test the cylinder, you'll need to unplug your battery, and then remove the cover from your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. You should then be able to remove 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 likely possible to take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith and reuse them as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness, secure it in place and reattach any covers, or panels you removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the ignition system's last link. The engine cannot start if the spark plug breaks. It can be that your car will not start at all, or it will run poorly. In any case, the root is likely to be one of the factors that block or hinder the flow of electricity across the spark plug gap, which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture to start.
Be sure to wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injury if you touch them with your naked skin.
You might notice a light brown or gray residue on the top of the electrode if a spark plug is bad. It could also have a black layer on the opposite side of the electrode. These deposits, also known as corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electricity from crossing the spark plug gap and igniting your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs might be the cause you can test them if you remove the plugs from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. Then, you will have to follow the proper procedure for your vehicle to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a metal surface that is grounded and begin the engine. If they are working you will see an intense blue spark near the tip of central electrode.
If you do not see a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go through the ignition chain, testing each element until you can determine what is hindering the spark plugs from performing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually break This is especially relevant to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the time it takes to repair and prevent major problems in the worst case.