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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't begin to start until the ignition switch is sending an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time, normal wear and tear may cause the switch to malfunction.

You can remove the trim on your steering column using specially designed tools to gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair manual for guidance on how to do this correctly.

1. Make sure to check the Switch

A malfunctioning switch is one of the most common ignition issues. It functions as bridge between two contacts, and controls when relays activate and deactivate. It is less likely to fail because it does not channel full power from devices such as the starter. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.

A bad switch is recognized by a slow time turning the key. This could be due to a variety of things that include not inserting the key correctly or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's also commonplace for people to mistake their keys to their car with the keys of someone else, which can lead to mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll need to ensure that the battery is charged and that there are no other electrical issues in the system. It is also important to check the voltage of every component to ensure they are supplying enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to push the pin into. It could be anything from paintbrush handles to kabob skewer, but you should stay clear of anything brittle that could break within the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that overhang the switch when you are ready to get started. After that take off and loosen any screws that are holding the switch in place, and then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect any cables connected to it. Find out how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.

If the ignition switch isn't working it's recommended to have it replaced by a professional. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch, without disabling the steering column. This could result in an unintentional airbag deployment if you do it incorrectly. It's best to leave it to your local locksmith to take care of this.

2. Verify the Wire

Your car may not start if you cannot turn the key or it will not start. This could be due a variety of components in the ignition system. It is important to know 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 operated by a key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is locked (which is typically shown by an red light), the ignition circuit is active and it is inaccessible to start your car.

You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch or coil. The voltmeter should read around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage is below that it indicates that there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or even the ignition coil itself.

Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure there are no other components that could interfere with the test. Then set G28 Car Keys to the resistance or continuity mode and place 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 reads "open" or fails to show any voltage, you should replace the switch.

When you're changing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. When replacing the ignition switch, you must be careful not to hit the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools or they'll get stuck and the engine will not start. In some vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and isn't recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's manual that states it's safe. If you don't you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the wiring, battery and ignition switch but can't get your car to start, it may be time to look at the cylinder. The cylinder is the part that holds the key. It is mechanically attached to the steering lock so that a would-be burglar 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 inside the cylinder could become stuck as they adapt to your key's shape. This can cause your car to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be loose and a tap using the tack hammer may assist in releasing it. Be careful not to jumble the springs in the cylinder and ensure that the key is correctly installed prior to tapping.

Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is if you have to jiggle the key and try different positions before it gets started. This is a red flag and should be addressed immediately, since it will continue to get worse as time passes.

To check the cylinder you must remove the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. Then, you'll be able pull out the old ignition switch as well as 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 the cylinder to a locksmith and reuse them, as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder, be sure to reconnect the wiring harness and secure it and reattach any covers or panels that you have removed.

4. Check Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition chain. The engine won't run in the event that the spark plug fails. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or it may start but run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one of several things are preventing or impeding the flow of electricity across spark plug gaps, which ignites the mixture of fuel and air within your engine.

Be sure to use protective tools and gloves before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injuries if you touch them with your naked skin.

There may be a slight gray or brown fleck on the top of the electrode if a spark plug is bad. It may also have a black coating on the side of the electrode. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.

If you think that your spark plugs are to blame You can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the proper procedure for your car to remove components that cover the spark plugs. After you have removed the plugs you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and crank the engine. If they are working, you should be able to see a strong blue spark at the point of the central electrode.





If you don't see any spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go back through the ignition system chain, testing each part until you find out what's blocking the spark plugs from doing their job. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break down with time, and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and prevent a major headache at the worst time.