9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Fix Car Ignition

How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't start unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time could cause the switch to malfunction.

You can remove the steering column trim using special tools to access the ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair manual to learn how to do it right.

1. Make sure to check the Switch

One of the most frequently encountered mobile ignition lock repair services issues is a malfunctioning switch. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, controlling the time when relays are activated and deactivated. Because it isn't able to channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that is less likely to fail. It is still susceptible to being damaged or corroded.

A malfunctioning switch is recognized by a slow time turning the key. This can be caused by various reasons such as not inserting the correct key correctly or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's also commonplace for people to mix up their keys to their car with those of the keys of someone else, which can lead to mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't working there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, make sure the battery is charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues within the system. You should also verify the voltage of every component to make sure they're providing enough power. Once you've done these steps, it's time to start troubleshooting.

Luckily the ignition key replacement switch is simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round component that connects everything. You'll need a flathead and something long enough to insert the pin. You can employ anything from a paintbrush, to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is brittle, as it can break into the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that cover the area around the switch when you're ready to get started. Once you've done this, loosen and remove any screws that keep the switch in place and then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you may have to cut off any cables connected to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own, this will tell you exactly how to do this.

It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by an expert when it's not working. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column which could trigger an unintentional deployment of airbags if done incorrectly. It is best to allow your locksmith to handle this.

2. Verify the Wire

Your car might not start if it is difficult to turn the key or it will not start. This could be due a number of components within the 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 operated by a key. It has four positions: off run, accessory, and "lock." If the switch is in the lock position (which typically has a red indicator) the ignition circuit is live and it's not possible to start the engine.

You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch or 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 even the ignition coil itself.

Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure that there are no other components that could interfere with your test. Then you should set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance mode and place one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or doesn't show any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.

When you're replacing the switch, make sure to use a brand new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your car will run and start correctly. Also, when you replace the ignition switch, be careful not to strike the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools or they'll get stuck and the engine will not start. You'll have to take off the steering wheel as well as the gear selector on some vehicles to gain access to the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and should not be done unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do this. Otherwise, serious damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is possible.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch, but can't get your car to start, it could be time to look at the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the lock on the steering wheel so a would-be thief can't steer the car without keys.

If your cylinder has started to wear out, you may find that the key doesn't turn. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder become stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which could cause your car not to start. Or, the cylinder might be shaky, but a tap with the small hammer from a tack can aid in releasing it. Just be careful not to crush the springs inside and ensure that your key is properly installed prior to tapping.

If you have to jiggle and move the key ignition replacement before it can begin, this is another indication that your cylinder is been damaged. This is a sign of trouble and needs to be fixed immediately, since it will only get worse with time.

To examine the cylinder you'll need to disconnect your battery and take off the cover from your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition lock repair near me module. Then, you'll be able to remove the old ignition switch and the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have a spare ignition switch lying around, it's likely possible that you can take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a auto locksmith ignition replacement to reuse them, as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness, secure it in place and then reattach any covers or panels you've removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the ignition system's final link. When it breaks it stops the engine from running. This can take the form of your car not starting at all, or may start but run poorly. In either case, the cause 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 are working on a level surface and employing protective gloves and tools to avoid getting struck. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when touched with bare skin.

When a spark plug goes bad, you might observe that the edge of the electrode's central portion has a slight brown or gray substance on it. It could also have a black layer on the opposite side of the electrode. The deposits or fouling may stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of your spark plug and igniting an engine.

If you believe that your spark plugs may be at fault you can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire and following the proper procedure for your vehicle to remove components that cover the spark plugs. After you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and turn the engine. If they are working you should see an intense blue spark near the point of the central electrode.

If you do not see a spark you have found the issue. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the chain of ignition and test each component until the spark plugs are no longer working. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear down and break down with time, and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can slow the process down and prevent a major headache at the worst time.