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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car will not start until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time can cause the switch to malfunction.
Utilizing special tools, you can remove the trim on your steering column and access 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 issues is a defective switch. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, and controls when relays activate and deactivate. It is more likely to fail since it does not channel the full power from devices like the starter. However, it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.
A bad switch can be identified by a difficult time turning the key. This could be due to a variety of things, including not inserting the key correctly or wearing out the mechanism over time. It is also common for people to mistake their keys to their car with those of the keys of someone else, which can result in mechanical damage.
Before contacting a locksmith, you might want to try a few things. First, you'll want to make sure that the battery is fully charged and there are no other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. It is also important to check the voltage of every component to make sure they're sufficient power. After you've completed these steps, it's time to begin troubleshooting.
Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of metal that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to push the pin into. You can use anything from a paintbrush to a kabob stick, but avoid anything brittle as it could cause damage to the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that overhang the switch when you're ready to work. After that remove and loosen the screws that hold the switch in place, and then gently remove it. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do this.
It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by professionals if it doesn't work. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch, without disabling your steering column. This could lead to an unintentional airbag deployment if you do it incorrectly. This is why it's often best to have your locksmith take care of this for you.
2. Check the Wire
If you can't turn the ignition key or your car won't start, your issue could be related to any of the components of your vehicle's ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system works to be able to spot problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by the key. It has four positions including off, accessory, run and "lock." When the switch is locked (which is usually shown by the red light) the ignition circuit is activated and it is impossible to start your car.
To determine if the ignition switch is damaged or if the ignition coil is bad, you need to do a quick electrical test using a Voltmeter. When the ignition switch has been running at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read approximately 12.6, If the voltage falls below that, there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil itself.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure no other components can interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance modes and connect one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should go to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or fails to show any voltage, you must replace the switch.
When you're replacing the switch, make certain to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run correctly. When you replace the switch, be sure not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and the engine will not run. In some 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 shouldn't be done unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do this. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is likely.
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. locksmith ignition replacement cost 's the component that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock to ensure that thieves can't control the car without keys.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could find that the key doesn't turn. The pins in the cylinder can get stuck as they adjust to your key's shape. This could cause your vehicle to not start. Or, the cylinder might be loose however a tap using a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Just be careful not to disturb the springs within and make sure that the key is correctly inserted before tapping.
If you have to jiggle and move your key around before it will begin, this is another sign that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a sign of trouble and should be addressed immediately, as it can only get worse with time.
To examine the cylinder you'll have to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover from 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 likely possible to 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 make sure to reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the covers and panels you took off.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the last link in your ignition system chain. The engine cannot run in the event that the spark plug fails. It could be that your car won't start at all, or it will run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which then ignites the air and fuel mixture in your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you work on a safe surface and using protective gloves and tools to keep from being struck. Spark plugs can be very hot and could cause serious injuries if handled with hands that are not protected.
You may notice a light brown or gray residue on the top of the electrode if the spark plug is damaged. It may also have a black coating on the sides of the electrode. The deposits or fouling may prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap of your spark plug and igniting an engine.
If you suspect your spark plugs may be the cause you can test them if you remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. You can do this 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. Once you have removed the plugs you can place them on a surface that is grounded and turn the engine. If they are good, you should see a bright blue spark crossing the gap in the middle of the central electrode.
If you don't see a spark, you've identified the issue. The next step is to work back through the ignition chain, testing each component until you can determine what is blocking the spark plugs from doing their job. It's important to remember that all systems wear down and break down with time and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can help to slow down the process and avoid a big headache at the worst possible time.
