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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't start until the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time could cause the switch to malfunction.

You can remove the trim on your steering column using specialized tools to gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right.





1. Check the Switch

One of the most common ignition problems is a bad switch. It regulates the moment relays are activated, and deactivated, acting as bridge. Because it isn't able to harness the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter component that's less likely to fail. It is still susceptible to being damaged or corrosion-prone.

A malfunctioning switch can be recognized by a slow time turning the key. This could be due to a variety of things such as improperly inserting the key, or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not common for people to confuse their keys with someone else's. This could cause mechanical damage.

Before contacting a locksmith, you can try a few things. First, you'll need to make sure the battery is charged and that there are no other electrical issues in the system. You should also examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are sufficient power. After you've completed these steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.

Luckily, the ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to push the pin inside. It could be anything from an artist's brush to a Kabob skewer, but you should stay clear of anything brittle that could break inside the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that cover the area around the switch when you're ready to work. After removing the trim pieces, take off any screws that hold the switch in place. Then, gently take it off. 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 instruction manual for your vehicle.

It is best to have the ignition switch replaced by an expert when it's not working. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch without removing your steering column. This could lead to the unintentional deployment of airbags if you do it incorrectly. This is why it's best to have your locksmith take care of this for you.

2. Check the Wiring

Your car may not start if you are unable to turn the key or if it will not start. This could be due a number components in the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you determine the cause of the problem and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is an electrical switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is in the lock position (which usually has the red indicator) the ignition circuit is live and it's impossible to start the engine.

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

Connect the electrical connector to ensure that it doesn't interfere with the 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 voltage gauge shows "open" or does not register any voltage it's time to replace the switch.

When you're replacing the switch, be sure to use a 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, 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. You'll need to remove the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in certain vehicles to get access to the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy, and it is not recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's guideline that states it's safe. If you do not then you could cause severe damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the wiring, battery and ignition switch and still can't 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 connected to the steering lock so that thieves can't drive the car if it's not there.

You may notice that your key will not turn if the cylinder has worn out. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder are stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key, which may cause your car not to start. The cylinder could also be shaky, but a tap with the small hammer from a tack can help to free it. Just be careful not to disturb the springs inside and ensure that the key is correctly inserted before tapping.

If you have to jiggle and move your key before it can begin, this is another indication that your cylinder is become damaged. This is a sign of trouble and should be addressed immediately, as it will only get worse with time.

To examine the cylinder, you must remove the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. You'll then be able to pull out the old ignition switch and the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have an additional ignition switch around, it's likely possible that you can take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith in order to reuse them, as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring and secure it before reattaching all covers and panels that were removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition system chain. If it fails it stops the engine from running. 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 several things that hinder or prevent electricity from crossing the spark plug gap which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure you're working on a safe surface, employing protective gloves and tools to keep from being zapped. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injuries when you touch them with bare skin.

When key ignition replacement goes bad, you might be able to see that the top of the central electrode is covered with a slight brown or gray residue on it. The electrode could also have an opaque coating. The deposits or fouling may prevent high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs could be the cause, you can test them by having them remove the plugs from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you will need to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle in order to remove the components that surround the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and crank the engine. If they're working you will see an intense blue spark near the tip of central electrode.

If you do not see a spark you have found the issue. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the chain of ignition and test each component until the spark plugs are no longer working. All systems wear out and eventually fail and this is especially true for ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can help to slow down the process and prevent a major headache at the worst possible moment.