How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't start until the ignition switch is sending an electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time can cause the switch to malfunction.
With the help of specialized tools, you are able to remove the trim on your steering column and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it correctly.
1. Check the Switch
A defective switch is one of the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It controls the time when relays are activated and deactivated, acting as bridge. Since it doesn't harness the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter component that's less likely to fail. It is still susceptible to being damaged or damaged or corroded.
One indication of a defective switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This could be due to many things, including incorrectly inserting the key or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon for people to mix their keys up with those of others. This can result in mechanical damage.
Before contacting a locksmith, you can try a few things. You'll first want to ensure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues with the system. Also, you should examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.
Fortunately the ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that connects everything. It's necessary to use a flathead and a piece of material that is long enough to push the pin into. You can employ 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 cover the area around the switch when you are ready to go. After removing the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then, gently remove it. Depending on the model, you might need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do this.
It is best to have the ignition switch replaced by an expert in the event that it isn't working. The replacement process involves disabling the steering column which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it's done improperly. For this reason, it's best to have your local locksmith handle this for you.
2. Verify the Wire
If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car isn't starting, your issue could be due to any of the components of your vehicle's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you determine the cause of the problem and make the necessary repairs.
The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It has four positions, which include "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is locked (which is typically marked by a red light), the ignition circuit is in operation and it is not possible to start your car.
You can use a voltmeter 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 falls below that then there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be a solenoid, battery, or the ignition coil.
Connect the electrical connector to ensure that it does not interfere with the test. Then you should set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance 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 does not show any voltage, you must replace the switch.
Make sure you use a new ignition key and high-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. Also, when you replace the ignition switch, you must be careful not to hit the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools, or they'll become stuck and your engine won't be able to start. You'll need to remove the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in some vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and should not be done unless you have an owner's guideline that says it's safe to do so. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column and 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 examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the part that holds the key. It is mechanically connected to the steering lock to ensure that thieves can't drive the car if it's not there.
You might observe that your key will not rotate if the cylinder is worn out. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder become stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which can cause your car to not start. The cylinder might also be loose. Tapping ignition barrel replacement near me with a small tackhammer will help. Just be careful not to crush the springs in the cylinder and ensure that the key is correctly placed before tapping.
If you need to move the key before it can start, this is another indication that your cylinder is become damaged. This is a bad sign, and it must be addressed immediately as it will only worsen over time.
To examine the cylinder you'll need to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover around your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be simple to take off, as will the cylinder made of steel. If you don't have an extra switch, you might be able to take your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to a locksmith for reuse as long they're in good shape. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, make sure to reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the panels and covers that were removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. The engine won't start when the spark plug is broken. It could be in the form of your car not starting at all, or it may start but run poorly. In either case, it is likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which then ignites the air and fuel mixture in your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure you're working on a safe surface, employing protective gloves and tools to avoid getting zapped. Spark plugs can be extremely hot and could cause serious injuries if handled with hands that are not protected.
When a spark plug goes bad, you may notice that the tip of the central electrode is covered with a slight brown or gray substance on it. It may also have a black coating on the sides of the electrode. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap between the spark plug and sparking your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs might be the culprit, you could test them by remove them from the tube that is 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 the components that cover the spark plugs. After removing the plugs place them on a surface that is grounded and start the engine. If they're working you should see an intense blue spark at 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 your ignition chain and test each component until the spark plugs aren't working. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear down and break down with time, and this is especially true of ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can slow the process down and avoid a big problem at the worst time.