How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won’t start until the ignition switch sends the electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time could result in the switch not functioning properly.
Using specialized tools, you can take off the trim on your steering column and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for guidance on how to do this correctly.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
A defective switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It functions as bridge between two contacts, regulating the relays’ activation and deactivation. Because it isn’t able to channel the full power of devices such as the starter, it’s a lighter component that is less likely to fail. However, it’s still possible for the switch to get damaged or corroded.
One sign of a damaged switch is a difficulty 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 to see people confuse their keys with those of others. This can result in mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith, you may try a few options. First, make sure the battery is fully charged and there aren’t any other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are sufficient power. Once you’ve done these steps, it’s time to begin troubleshooting.
Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It’s connected to the ignition cylinder, 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 into. You can use anything from a paintbrush, to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is brittle, as it can break into the hole.
If you’re ready for the work, you’ll have to take away any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After this take off and loosen any screws that hold the switch in place then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you may also have to unplug the wires that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own and model, it will show you exactly how to do it.
If the ignition switch isn’t working it’s recommended to replace it by an expert. It is possible to replace it by turning off the steering column, which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it’s done incorrectly. This is why it’s often best to have your local locksmith handle this for you.
2. Check the Wiring
The car may not start if you are unable to turn the ignition key or it won’t start. This could be due to a variety of components in the ignition system. It’s important to understand how the ignition system works to identify problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is operated by a key. It has four positions: off, accessory, run and “lock.” When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has the red indicator), the ignition circuit is live and it is not possible to start the engine.
To determine whether the ignition switch is defective or the ignition coil is faulty, you’ll have to conduct an electrical test with an voltage meter. If the ignition switch is running, the voltmeter should show around 12.6, If the voltage is below that it indicates that there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the ignition coil itself.
Disconnect the electrical connector so that it doesn’t interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and connect 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, it’s time to replace the switch.
Use a brand new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle runs and starts properly. When you replace the switch, be sure not to hit the pins of the cylinder’s ignition with your tools. In the event of a collision, they’ll get stuck and your engine won’t be able to run. You’ll need to remove the steering wheel and gear selector in some vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and is not recommended unless you have an owner’s manual that states it’s safe to do so. Otherwise, serious damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is possible.
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 key ignition replacement near me it could be time to check the cylinder. The cylinder is the part that holds the key. It is mechanically connected to the steering lock to ensure that burglars won’t be able to drive the car without it.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you could notice that the key won’t turn. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder become stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder might also be loose. A tap using a small tackhammer will aid. Just be careful not to jumble the springs within and make sure that your key is properly placed before tapping.
If you have to jiggle and move the key before it can begin, it is a sign that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a negative sign, and it should be corrected right away because it will get worse with time.
To examine the cylinder you’ll need to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover from your steering wheel until you can 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 a spare switch, you may be able to take your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to locksmiths for reuse as long as they’re in good working order. 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 the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the final link in your ignition chain. The engine won’t run in the event that the spark plug fails. It can be that your car ignition key replacement will not start at all or will run badly. In either of these scenarios, it’s likely that one or more factors are hindering or blocking the flow of electricity across spark plug gaps, which ignites the air and fuel mixture within your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you work on a safe surface and employing protective gloves and tools to keep from getting zapped. Spark plugs can be extremely hot and cause serious injuries if handled with hands that are not protected.
You might notice a light brown or gray residue on the edge of the electrode when the spark plug is damaged. The electrode may also have an opaque coating. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.
If you suspect your spark plugs might be the cause, you can test them by having them remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil and the plug wire. Then, you will be required to follow the correct procedure for your car to remove the components that cover the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a surface that is grounded and crank the engine. If they’re good you will see a bright blue spark extending across the gap between the tip 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 blocking the spark plugs from performing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually break, and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can to slow down the process and prevent a major headache at the worst time.