How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

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

You can remove the steering column trim using specially designed tools to access the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it correctly.

1. Check the Switch

One of the most common ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, controlling when relays activate and deactivate. Since it doesn't transmit the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that's less likely to fail. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone.

A bad switch is recognized by a slow time turning the key. This can be caused by many factors that include incorrectly inserting a key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon for people to mix their keys up with someone else's. This can result in mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith, you may try a few options. First, you'll need to make sure the battery is charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues in the system. It is also important to check the voltage of every component to ensure that they are supplying enough power. Once you've done these steps, it's now time to start troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of metal that holds everything together. It's necessary to use a flathead and something that is long enough to insert the pin. You can make use of anything from a paintbrush, to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is brittle, as it can be broken into the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you are ready to go. Once you've done this take off and loosen any screws that hold the switch in place, and Fix Car Ignition then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you may have to cut off any cables that connect to it. You can learn how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.

It is best to have the ignition switch replaced by professionals when it's not working. Replacing it can involve disabling the steering column, which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it's done in a wrong manner. Therefore, it is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this for you.

2. Check the Wiring

The car may not start if you are unable to turn the key or it isn't starting. This could be due to any number of components within the ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions to be able to spot issues 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 that are off run, accessory, and "lock." If the switch is locked (which is typically shown by a red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start your car ignition switch replacement.

To determine if the ignition switch is defective or if the ignition coil is bad, you have to conduct an electrical test with an 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 a solenoid, battery, or the ignition coil.

Disconnect the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and put one lead on one of the ignition switch's terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter reads "open" or fails to register any voltage, it is recommended to replace the switch.

Make sure you use a new ignition key and high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the switch, be sure not to touch the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and your engine won't 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 a challenge and is not recommended unless you have an owner's guideline that says it's safe to do this. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is possible.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the wiring, battery and ignition switch, but can't get your car to start, it might be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the part which holds the key and is mechanically linked to the steering lock to ensure that a would-be burglar can't drive the car without it.

If your cylinder has started to wear out, you might find that the key doesn't turn. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder become stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder may also be sloppy. Tapping it with the tackhammer can help. Just be careful not to jumble the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is properly placed before tapping.

Another indication that your cylinder is failing is when you have to turn the key and try multiple positions before it begins. This is a negative sign and must be fixed immediately because it will worsen over time.

To check the cylinder you'll need to take off the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as well as the metal ignition cylinder. 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 ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring and secure it before reattaching the panels and covers that you removed.

4. Check Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition chain. When it breaks, the engine can't run. It could be that your car won't start at all or will run poorly. In either case, the cause is likely to be one of a few things that hinder or prevent electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap, which causes your engine's air and fuel mixture.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure you're working on a level surface and employing protective gloves and tools to avoid being struck. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when touched with your naked skin.

There may be a slight gray or brown fleck on the edge of the electrode when a spark plug is bad. It could also have a black coating on the opposite side of the electrode. These deposits or fouling can hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you believe that your spark plugs are at fault, you can test them by taking them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the appropriate procedure for your vehicle to remove components that cover the spark plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a metal surface that is grounded. Then start the engine. If they're good you should see a strong blue spark crossing the gap in the middle of the central electrode.

If you don't see a spark, you have found the issue. The next step is to go back through the ignition chain, testing each component until you can determine what is hindering the spark plugs from performing their job. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break down with time, and this is especially true of ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and prevent an issue in the worst case.