How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car will not start unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to fail.
You can remove the steering column trim using specially designed tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Check the repair manual to get guidance on how to do this properly.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
One of the most common ignition issues is a defective switch. It acts as a bridge between two contacts, controlling when relays activate and deactivate. It is more likely to fail since it does not channel full power from devices like the starter. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone.
A malfunctioning switch is identified by a difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by many things, including not inserting the key correctly or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's not common to see people mix 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 are no electrical issues with the system. You should also check the voltage of each component to determine if it's capable of supplying enough power. Once you've completed these steps, it's time to start troubleshooting.
Luckily the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of metal that holds everything together. You'll need to use a flathead and a piece of material that is long enough to push the pin into. This could be anything from paintbrush handles to Kabob skewer, but you should avoid using any brittle material that could break inside the hole.
If you're ready for the work, you'll need to remove any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. Once you've done this remove and loosen the screws that are holding the switch in place and then gently remove it. 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 it.
It's best to get the ignition switch replaced by professionals if it doesn't work. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column which could trigger an unintentional airbag deployment if it's done in a wrong manner. It is recommended to allow your locksmith to handle this.
2. Check the Wiring
If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, your problem could be related to any number of parts of your car's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you identify problems and make the necessary repairs.
The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch that can be turned by the key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by a red light), the ignition circuit is active and it is inaccessible to start your car.
To determine whether the ignition switch damaged or the ignition coil is defective, you will must conduct a quick electrical test using an voltage meter. The voltmeter should read around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage falls below that, there is an open circuit within the system. It could be the solenoid, battery or the ignition coil.
Remove the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance mode and put 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 shows "open" or fails to detect any voltage, you must replace the switch.
When changing the switch, make certain to use a new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run properly. When you replace the switch, make sure not to hit the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and your engine won't be able to run. You'll need to take off the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in some vehicles to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and shouldn't be done unless you have an owner's manual that states it's safe to do so. If you don't then you could cause severe damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch but still cannot get your car started It could be time to check the cylinder. The cylinder is the component that holds the key. It is mechanically linked to the steering lock so that thieves can't drive the car without it.
You may be noticing that your key does not turn if the cylinder is worn out. The pins of the cylinder can get stuck when they adapt to the shape of your key. This could cause your car to not start. The cylinder may also be sloppy. Tapping it with the small tackhammer may help. Just be careful not to disturb the springs inside and ensure that your key is correctly inserted before tapping.
If you have to jiggle and move your key before it will begin, it is a sign that your cylinder has gone bad. This is a bad indication and needs to be fixed immediately, as it will only get worse with time.
To test the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery and remove the cover around your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be simple to take off, as will the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have a spare ignition switch lying around, it's possible to take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a locksmith to reuse them as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness and secure it and reattach any covers or panels that you have removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the ignition system's final link. When it breaks, the engine can't run. It can be that your vehicle won't start at all or will run poorly. 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 ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture to run.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you are working on a level surface and using protective gloves and tools to prevent getting zapped. Spark plugs can be very hot and cause serious injuries if touched with bare hands.
If a spark plug goes bad, you might observe that the edge of the central electrode is covered with a slight brown or gray substance on it. The electrode could also have an opaque coating. These deposits, also known as fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.
If G28CarKeys suspect that your spark plugs could be to blame you can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the appropriate procedure for your car to remove components that cover the spark plugs. After removing the plugs place them on a surface that is grounded. Then begin the engine. If they're working you will see a bright blue spark on the tip of central electrode.
If you don't see any spark, you've identified the problem. The next step is to go backwards through the chain of ignition and check each component until the spark plugs aren't functioning. All systems will wear out and eventually fail and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can slow the process down and avoid a major headache at the worst time.