How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't start unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear could cause the switch to fail.
You can remove the trim on your steering column using specially designed tools to access the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it right.
1. Check the Switch
A defective switch is one of the most frequent ignition problems. It acts as a bridge between two contacts, regulating the relays' activation and deactivation. Since it doesn't harness the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that's less likely to fail. The switch could still be damaged or corrosion-prone.
One sign of a bad switch is a difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by a number of factors, including incorrectly inserting a key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not common for people to confuse their keys with someone else's. This can cause mechanical damage.
Before contacting a locksmith, you might want to try a few things. First, you'll need to make sure the battery is fully charged and there aren't any other electrical issues in the system. Also, you should check the voltage of each component to see if they're providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, it's now time to start troubleshooting.
Fortunately, 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 a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to press the pin inside. You can make use of anything from a paintbrush to Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything brittle as it could cause damage to the hole.
If you're ready for the job, you'll need to take off any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. Once you've done this remove and loosen the screws that hold the switch in place and then gently pull it out. Depending on the model you may have to cut off the cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle and model, it will show you exactly how to do this.
It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by professionals if it doesn't work. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch without removing your steering column. This could lead to an unintentional airbag being deployed if you do it incorrectly. Therefore, it is recommended to let your locksmith take care of this for you.
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 number of components of your vehicle's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you identify problems and make the necessary repairs.
The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by the key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is in the lock position (which usually has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is active and it's not possible to start the engine.
You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch or coil. If the ignition switch is set to run at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read approximately 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that, there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or the ignition coil itself.
Disconnect the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance modes and place one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or fails to register any voltage, it is recommended to replace the switch.
If you're replacing the switch, be sure to use a brand new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. Also, when you replace the ignition switch, you must be careful not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools or they'll become stuck and your engine will not start. In some vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and the gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and shouldn't be done unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do this. If you don't you could cause serious damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've sifted through the wiring, battery and ignition switch, but can't get your car to start, it could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the part which holds the key and is mechanically connected to the steering lock to ensure that a would-be burglar can't drive the car without it.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could notice that the key won't turn. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder are stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which could cause your car not to start. The cylinder might also be loose. A tap using the small tackhammer may aid. Just be ignition lock repair services not to jumble the springs inside and ensure that your key is correctly placed before tapping.
If you need to jiggle and move your key before it will start, this is another indication that your cylinder is been damaged. This is a sign of trouble and should be addressed immediately, as it can continue to get worse as time passes.
To check the cylinder you must remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as should the cylinder made of steel. If you don't own a spare switch, you might be able take your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to locksmiths for reuse so long as they're in good working order. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect 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 your ignition system's last link. When it breaks it will stop the engine from running. This could take the form of your car not starting at all, or it may start but not run well. In any case, the root is likely to be one of the factors that block or hinder electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture.
Be sure to use protective tools and gloves before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be extremely hot and could cause serious injuries if touched with bare hands.
If a spark plug goes bad, you may notice that the tip of the central electrode is covered with a light gray or brown substance on it. The electrode could also have an opaque coating. These deposits or fouling can stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of your spark plug, igniting an engine.
If you believe that your spark plugs may be at fault You can test them by removing them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you'll be required to follow the correct procedure for your car 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're working you will see a bright blue spark crossing the gap at the tip of the central electrode.
If you don't see any spark, you've found the problem. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the ignition chain and check each component until the spark plugs stop functioning. It's important to remember that all systems wear down and break down over time and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can slow the process down and prevent a major problem at the worst time.