How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won’t begin unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time, normal wear and tear can cause the switch to fail.
With the help of special tools, you can remove the trim on your steering column and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Check the repair manual to get guidance on how to do this correctly.
1. Make sure to check the Switch
A malfunctioning switch is among the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, and controls the relays’ activation and deactivation. It is more likely to fail since it does not channel the full power of devices such as the starter. However, it’s still possible for the switch to become damaged or damaged or corroded.
A bad switch is identified by a difficult time turning the key. This can be due to many factors that include not inserting the correct key correctly or the mechanism being worn out over time. It’s not unusual for people to confuse their keys with someone else’s. This can cause mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith, you can try a few things. First, you must ensure that the battery is fully charged and there aren’t any electrical issues in the system. It is also important to check the voltage of each component to determine if they’re supplying adequate power. Once you’ve done these steps, you’re ready to start troubleshooting.
Fortunately the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round component that connects everything. You’ll need to use a flathead and something that is long enough to insert the pin. This can be anything from an artist’s brush to a kabob skewer, but it is best to avoid anything brittle that could break within the hole.
Remove any trimming pieces that overhang the switch once you’re ready to work. After taking off the trim pieces, remove any screws that are holding the switch in place. Then, carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you might also have to unplug any wires connected to it. You can learn how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by a professional in the event that it isn’t working. The replacement process involves turning off the steering column, which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it’s done improperly. It’s best to allow your locksmith to take care of this.
2. Check the Wiring
Your car may not start if it is difficult to turn the ignition key or it won’t start. This could be due to a variety of components in the ignition system. It’s important to understand how the ignition system functions to identify issues and make the appropriate repairs.
The ignition switch is an electrical switch that has multiple poles and is operated by the key. It has four positions: off, accessory, run and “lock.” When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red), the ignition circuit is active and it’s not possible to start the engine.
To determine if the ignition switch is defective or the ignition coil is bad, you need to do a quick electrical test using the help of a voltmeter. When the ignition switch has been running and the voltmeter is reading approximately 12.6, If the voltage drops below that level, it’s a sign there’s an open circuit somewhere in the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or even the ignition coil itself.
Disconnect the electrical connector so that it doesn’t interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and put 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 does not register any voltage, you should 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 car will start and run properly. When replacing the switch, be sure not to hit the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. In the event of a collision, they’ll get stuck and your engine won’t be able to run. You’ll have to take off the steering wheel and gear selector on some vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This isn’t easy, and it is not recommended until you have an owner’s guideline that states it’s safe. Otherwise, serious damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you’ve worked your way through the wiring, battery and ignition switch but cannot get your car to start, it may be time to look at the cylinder. It’s the part that holds your key, and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock so that a potential thief cannot steer the car without a key.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you may be noticing that your key isn’t able to turn. The pins inside the cylinder may become stuck as they adjust to your key’s shape. This can cause your fix car ignition to not start. Or, the cylinder might be loose, but a tap with the tack hammer may aid in releasing it. Just be careful not to disturb the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is properly placed before tapping.
If you have to move the key around before it will begin, this is another sign that your cylinder has gone bad. This is a bad sign and should be corrected right away, since it will only worsen over time.
To test the cylinder, you’ll need to disconnect your battery and remove the cover from your steering wheel until you’re able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as should the cylinder made of steel. If you don’t have a spare switch, you might be able take your original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse as long as they’re in good working order. After replacing the switch and cylinder, make sure you connect the wiring harness, secure it in place and then reattach any covers or panels you’ve removed.
4. Check Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the ignition system’s last link. If it fails it will stop the engine from running. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but not run well. In any case, the root is likely to be one of a few factors that block or hinder the flow of electricity across the spark plug gap which causes your engine’s air and fuel mixture to start.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you are working on a safe surface and employing protective gloves and tools to keep from getting struck. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injury when you touch them with your naked skin.
You might notice a light brown or gray residue on the top of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. The electrode could also be covered with a dark coating. The deposits or fouling may stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of your spark plug, igniting an engine.
If you think that your spark plugs are to blame you can test them by removing them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. After that, you’ll be required to follow the correct procedure for your car to remove the components that surround 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 good, you should see a bright blue spark crossing the gap in the middle of the central electrode.
If you don’t see any spark, you’ve found the issue. The next step is to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each part until the spark plugs are no longer functioning. It’s important to remember that all systems wear out and break over time, and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can help slow the process down and avoid a big headache at the worst time.
