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. Normal wear and tear over time can cause the switch malfunction.
ignition lock repair near me can remove the steering column trim with special tools to gain access to your ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right.
1. Check the Switch
One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a defective switch. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, regulating 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 fail. The switch can still be damaged or damaged or corroded.
One sign of a bad switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This could be due to various reasons such as incorrectly inserting a key or the mechanism being worn out over time. It's not unusual to see people confuse their keys with keys from 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 aren't any electrical issues within the system. You should also check the voltage of every component to ensure that they are providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of equipment that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll require an flathead screwdriver as well as something long enough to push the pin inside. This could be anything from an artist's brush to a Kabob skewer. However, it is best to avoid any brittle material that could break inside the hole.
If you're ready for the work, you'll need to take away any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After this remove and loosen the screws that are holding the switch in place and then gently remove it. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. You can learn how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't working, it's best to replace it by an expert. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column, which may trigger unintentional airbag deployment if done incorrectly. Therefore, it is recommended to let the locksmith in your area handle this for you.
2. Check the Wiring
If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, the problem could be related to any number of components in your car's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions will help you determine the cause of the problem and make the necessary repairs.
The ignition switch is an electrical switch that has multiple poles and is operated by the key. It has four positions that are off run, accessory, 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.
You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch and ignition coil. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage falls below that, it indicates there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil itself.
Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch to ensure that no other components can interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter to 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 shows "open" or doesn't register any voltage it's time to replace the switch.
Use a new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure that your vehicle is running and starts correctly. When you replace the switch, be sure not to strike the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and the engine won't run. In certain vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and gear selector in order to access the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge, and it is not recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's manual that states it's safe. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you have tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch, but you are still unable to start your car It could be time to inspect the cylinder. It's the part that holds your key and is connected to the steering wheel lock to ensure that thieves can't drive the car without the key.
You may be noticing that your key does not rotate if the cylinder is worn out. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder become stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key, which may cause your car to not start. Or, the cylinder might be shaky however a tap using the small hammer from a tack can aid in releasing it. Just be careful not to jumble the springs inside and ensure that the key is correctly inserted before tapping.
If you are required to move the key before it will begin, it is a indication that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a bad sign, and it should be corrected right away as it will only worsen over time.
To examine the cylinder, you must remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. Then, you'll be able pull out the old ignition switch and the cylinder 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're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach all covers and panels that you removed.
4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the ignition system's last link. The engine won't start in the event that the spark plug fails. This can take the form of your car not running at all, or it may start but run poorly. In any case, the root is likely to be one of several factors that block or hinder electricity from crossing the spark plug gap, which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture to run.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you work on a level surface and employing protective gloves and tools to prevent getting struck. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injury when you touch them with your skin.
When a spark plug goes bad, you might be able to see that the top of the central electrode is covered with a light gray or brown substance on it. The electrode may also have a dark coating. These deposits or fouling can prevent high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs may be the culprit you can test them if you remove the plugs from their tube inside the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire and following the correct procedure for your vehicle to remove components that cover the spark plugs. Once you have removed the plugs you can place them on a grounded metal surface and then crank the engine. If they're good, you should see a strong blue spark across the gap between the tip of the central electrode.
If you don't see a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each component until the spark plugs aren't functioning. All systems get older and eventually break, and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and prevent major problems at the worst possible time.