How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't start until the ignition switch sends the electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time could result in the switch not functioning properly.
Using special tools, you can remove the steering column trim and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for instructions on how to do this correctly.
1. Check the Switch
A bad switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It regulates when relays are activated and deactivated, acting as a bridge. It is less likely to fail because it does not channel the full power from devices like the starter. The switch can still be damaged or corroded.
A defective switch is identified by a difficulty turning the key. This could be due to many things such as incorrectly inserting the key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's also commonplace for people to mistake their car keys with someone else's, which can result in mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't working there are a few things you could try before calling a locksmith. First, you must ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no electrical issues with the system. Also, you should check the voltage of each component to see if they're capable of supplying enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.
Luckily the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that holds everything together. It's necessary to use a flathead and a piece of material that is long enough to press the pin in. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but be careful of anything that is hard as it could cause damage to the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that cover the area around the switch when you're ready to go. After removing the trim pieces, take off any screws that hold the switch in position. Then carefully remove ignition lock repair services . Depending on the model, you might also need to disconnect any wires that connect to it. You can learn how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't working it is recommended to have it replaced by professionals. The replacement process involves disabling the steering column, which may trigger unintentional airbag deployment if done incorrectly. It is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this.
2. Check the Wire
If you're unable to turn the ignition key or your car won't start, your issue could be due to any number of components of your vehicle's ignition system. It's crucial to understand how the ignition system works to identify problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is turned by the key. It has four positions, which include "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by an red light) the ignition circuit is in operation and it is inaccessible to start your car.
To determine whether the ignition switch is bad or the ignition coil is faulty, you'll need to do a quick electrical test with an Voltmeter. When the ignition switch has been set to run, the voltmeter should show around 12.6, If the voltage drops below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the ignition coil itself.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch so that there are no other components that could interfere with your test. Then set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and place 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 does not register any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.
Use a brand new ignition key and high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and your engine will not run. In some vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and the gear selector in order to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and isn't recommended until you have an owner's manual that says it's safe. Otherwise serious damage to the steering column or 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 could be time to look at the cylinder. The cylinder is the piece that holds the key. It is mechanically linked to the steering lock so that burglars won't be able to drive the car without it.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. The pins inside the cylinder can get stuck as they adjust to your key's shape. This can cause your vehicle to not start. Or, the cylinder might be loose however a tap using the small hammer from a tack can aid in releasing it. Just be careful not to jumble the springs inside and ensure that the key is correctly placed before tapping.
If you are required to move the key before it will begin, it is a sign that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a negative sign, and it must be fixed immediately as it will only worsen over time.
To check the cylinder you'll need to take off the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as well as the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have a spare ignition switch lying around, it's 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 switch and cylinder be sure to 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 won't run if the spark plug breaks. This can take the form of your car not starting at all, or may start but then run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which then ignites the mixture of fuel and air inside your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you work on a level surface and employing protective gloves and tools to prevent getting hit with. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury if you touch them with your skin.
You may notice a light brown or gray residue on the top of the electrode when the spark plug is damaged. It could also have a black layer on the sides of the electrode. These deposits or fouling can hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.
If you believe that your spark plugs may be at fault You can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you'll need to follow the correct procedure for your car to remove the components that surround the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a metal surface that is grounded, and begin the engine. If they're functioning, you should see an intense blue spark on the edge of the central electrode.
If you don't see any spark, you've identified the problem. The next step is to go back through the ignition chain, testing each element until you find out what's hindering the spark plugs from performing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually break and this is especially relevant to ignition systems. However, regular maintenance can slow the process down and avoid a major headache at the worst possible moment.