How to fix car ignition – navigate to this website, Problems
The car won’t begin to start until the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time could result in the switch not functioning properly.
Using specialized tools, you can take off the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair manual to learn how to do it correctly.
1. Make sure to check the Switch
A defective switch is one of the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It functions as bridge between two contacts, and controls the relays’ activation and deactivation. It is more likely to fail since it doesn’t channel full power of devices like the starter. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone.
One indication of a defective switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This could be due to many things, including improperly inserting the key, or wearing out the mechanism over time. It is also common for people to misplace their keys to their car with those of another’s, which could result in mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith you can try a few things. First, you’ll want to ensure that the battery is charged and that there are no other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. It is also important to verify the voltage of every component to make sure they’re sufficient power. After you’ve completed the above steps, you’re ready to begin troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is easy to replace. It’s connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you’ll need an flathead screwdriver as well as something long enough to push the pin into. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but be careful of anything brittle as it could cause damage to the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that are covering 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, gently pull it out. Depending on the model, you might also have to unplug the wires that connect to it. Find out how to do it in the manual of your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn’t working, it’s best to replace it by professionals. It can be difficult to replace the mobile ignition lock repair services switch, without disabling the steering column. This could result in an accidental deployment of airbags if you do it incorrectly. It is recommended to allow your locksmith to handle this.
2. Check the Wire
If you’re unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car isn’t starting, your issue could be related to any of the components of your vehicle’s ignition system. It’s important to understand how the ignition system functions so that you can pinpoint problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is operated by a key. It has four positions, which include “off”, “accessory”, “run” and the “lock”. If the switch is locked (which is typically shown by a red light) the ignition circuit is in operation and it is not possible to start your car.
To determine whether the ignition switch bad or if the ignition coil itself is defective, you will need to do a quick electrical test using a voltmeter. If the ignition switch is running and the voltmeter is reading about 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that then there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be a solenoid, battery, or the ignition coil.
Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch to ensure no other components interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and place one lead onto one of the terminals on the ignition switch. 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.
If you’re changing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. When replacing the switch, ensure not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and the engine will not run. In some vehicles, you’ll have to remove the steering column and gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and shouldn’t be done unless you have an owner’s guideline that says it’s safe to do so. Otherwise serious damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you’ve tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch but still cannot start your car it could be time to check the cylinder. It’s the part that holds your key and is connected to the lock on the steering wheel so that a potential thief cannot drive the car without a key.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could notice that the key won’t turn. The pins inside the cylinder may become stuck as they adapt to your key’s shape. This could cause your car to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be loose and a tap using the small hammer from a tack can help to free it. Be sure not to mix the springs, and ensure that the key is properly inserted.
Another sign that your cylinder is in trouble is if you have to turn the key and try different positions before it begins. This is a red flag and should be addressed immediately, as it can only get worse over time.
To test the cylinder, you’ll need to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover on your steering wheel until you’re able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be simple to take off, as will the cylinder made of steel. 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’re in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring, secure it and reattach the covers and panels were removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is your ignition system’s last link. When it breaks it will stop the engine from running. It can be that your car will not start at all or it will run badly. In either case, it is likely that one of several factors are hindering or blocking electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which ignites the mixture of fuel and air inside your engine.
Be sure to use gloves and protective tools before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be very hot and cause serious injuries if they are touched by hands without gloves.
There may be a slight brown or gray residue on the top of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. The electrode could also have a dark coating. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.
If you think that your spark plugs may be at fault you can test them by removing 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 components that cover the spark plugs. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and crank the engine. If they are working you should see an intense blue spark on the tip of central electrode.
If you don’t see any spark, you’ve found the issue. Next, you’ll need to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each component until the spark plugs stop functioning. Every system will wear out and eventually break and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can help slow the process down and avoid a major problem at the worst moment.
