How to
Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car will not start unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear may cause the switch to fail.
With the help of special tools, you are able to remove your steering column trim and access the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it correctly.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
A bad switch is one of the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It functions as an intermediary between two contacts, controlling the time when relays are activated and deactivated. Since it doesn't channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter component that is less likely to fail. However, it's still possible for the switch to get damaged or corroded.
One sign of a bad switch is a difficulty turning the key. This could be due to many things that include incorrectly inserting the key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's also commonplace for people to mix up their keys to their car with someone else's, which can cause mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't working, there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll need to make sure the battery is fully charged and there aren't any other electrical issues within the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of each component to ensure that they are supplying enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.
Luckily, the ignition switch is pretty simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round component that connects everything. You'll need a flathead and a piece of material long enough to press the pin in. You can use anything from a paintbrush to Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is hard as it could break into the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you are ready to go. After removing the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then, gently pull it out. Depending on the model, you may also need to disconnect any wires that connect to it. You can learn how to do this in the manual of your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't working it is recommended to have it replaced by an expert. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch without removing the steering column. This could result in an unintentional deployment of airbags when you don't do it correctly. Therefore, it's best to have the locksmith in your area handle this for you.
2. Verify the Wire
Your car may not start if it is difficult to turn the key or if it won't start. This could be due to any number of components within the ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system works so that you can pinpoint problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that can be operated by a key. It has four positions that are off run, accessory, and "lock." When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red), the
ignition cylinder replacement near me circuit is live and it's not possible to start the engine.
You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch or ignition coil. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage is below that, there is an open circuit within the system. It could be the solenoid, the battery, or the ignition coil.
Disconnect the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter on the continuity or resistance modes and then place one lead onto one of the terminals on the
auto ignition key replacement switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter reads "open" or doesn't show any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.
Make sure you use a new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When you replace the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and your engine won't be able to run. In certain vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and the gear selector in order to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult, and it is not recommended until you have an owner's manual that says it's safe. If you don't then you could cause severe damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch, but you are still unable to get your
car ignition locked started It could be time to examine the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key, and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock so a would-be thief can't control the
car key ignition replacement near me without a key.
You might observe that your key will not rotate if the cylinder is worn out. The pins inside the cylinder can get stuck when they adapt to your key's shape. This can cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder may also be loose. A tap with the small tackhammer may aid. Be careful not mixing with the springs and make sure your key is properly installed.
Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is when you have to jiggle the key and try multiple positions before it starts. This is a red flag and needs to be fixed immediately, as it will only get worse over time.
To check the cylinder you'll need to take off the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. You should then be able to remove the old ignition switch as well as the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able to bring your original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse as long they're in good shape. 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. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the final link in your ignition system chain. The engine cannot run if the spark plug breaks. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one of several things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which then ignites the mixture of fuel and air inside your engine.
Make sure you wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be very hot and cause serious injuries if they are handled with hands that are not protected.
You may notice a light brown or gray residue on the edge of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. It may also have a black coating on the side of the electrode. These deposits, also known as fouling, can stop high-voltage electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap and igniting your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs might be the culprit you can test them by having them remove the plugs from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the proper procedure for your vehicle to remove the components that cover the spark plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded and start the engine. If they're working, you should be able to see a strong blue spark extending across the gap in the middle of the central electrode.
If you aren't seeing a spark, you've identified the problem. The next step is to work back through the ignition system chain, testing each element until you discover what's blocking the spark plugs from doing their job. All systems will wear out and eventually fail, and this is particularly relevant to ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to reduce the time it takes to repair and avoid major problems at the worst possible time.
