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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't start unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Over time normal wear and tear could cause the switch to fail.

Using specialized tools, you can remove the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair manual to learn how to do it right.

1. Check the Switch

A bad switch is among the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It regulates when relays are activated and deactivated through the use of a bridge. Because it isn't able to transmit the full power of devices like the starter, it's a less powerful component that's less likely to fail. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone.

One sign of a bad switch is a difficulty turning the key. This could be due to various factors that include incorrectly inserting the key or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's not common for people to mix keys with someone else's. This can cause mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't working, there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues within the system. Also, you should check the voltage of every component to make sure they're providing enough power. Once you've completed these steps, you can begin troubleshooting.

Fortunately, the ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll need an flathead screwdriver as well as something long enough to push the pin inside. You can use anything from a paintbrush to Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything brittle as it could break into the hole.





Remove any trim pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you are ready to work. After taking off the trim pieces, take off any screws that hold the switch in place. Then carefully take it off. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. ignition lock repair services can learn how to do this in the manual of your vehicle.

It's best to get the ignition switch replaced by professionals when it's not working. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch without disabling your steering column. This could result in an accidental deployment of airbags in the event that you don't do it correctly. It's best to leave it to your local locksmith to handle this.

2. Check the Wire

If you're unable to turn the ignition key or your car won't start, the issue could be due to any of the parts of your car's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions will help you identify problems and make the necessary repairs.

The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is turned by the key. It includes four positions "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by a red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start your car.

You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch or coil. The voltmeter should read approximately 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the run position. If the voltage is lower than that, there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the ignition coil itself.

Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch to ensure no other components interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and connect one lead on one of the terminals of the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage meter reads "open" or doesn't show any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.

If you're replacing the switch, be sure to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your car will run and start correctly. When replacing 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 take off the steering wheel and gear selector on some vehicles to gain access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge, and it is not recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's guideline that states it's safe. If you do not you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch, but still can't get your car to start It could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the component that holds the key and is mechanically attached 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 may be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. Sometimes, the pins inside the cylinder become stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which may cause your car not to start. The cylinder could also be sloppy. Tapping it with a small tackhammer will help. Be sure not to mix with the springs and ensure that your key is correctly installed.

Another sign that your cylinder is in trouble is if you have to turn the key and try multiple positions before it begins. This is a bad indication and should be addressed immediately, as it will only get worse with time.

To test the cylinder, you'll need to take off the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as should the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have an extra switch, you may be able take the original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse as long as they're in good working order. After replacing the switch and cylinder, make sure you connect the wiring harness, secure it in place and reattach any covers or panels you've removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is your ignition system's final link. The engine cannot start 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 then run poorly. In either case, it is likely that one or more things are preventing or impeding electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which ignites the air and fuel mixture within your engine.

Be sure to wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be very hot and can cause serious injuries if they are touched by hands without gloves.

If a spark plug goes bad, you may observe that the edge of the central electrode is covered with some light brown or gray residue on it. It could also have a black coating on the side of the electrode. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap and sparking your engine.

If you suspect that your spark plugs may be to blame You can test them by removing them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you'll be required to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle in order to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded, and begin the engine. If they are working, you should see a bright blue spark at the edge of the central electrode.

If you do not detect a spark, you've discovered the problem. The next step is to go back through the ignition chain, testing each part until you discover what's stopping 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 especially the case with ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can help to slow down the process and avoid a major headache at the worst moment.