How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't begin unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear could cause the switch to malfunction.

Utilizing specialized tools, you are able to remove the steering column trim and access the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it correctly.

1. Make sure to check the Switch

A bad switch is one of the most common ignition issues. It regulates when relays are activated and deactivated, acting as a bridge. Because it doesn't transmit the full power of devices like the starter, it's a less powerful component that's less likely to fail. However it's still possible for the switch to get damaged or corroded.

One sign of a damaged switch is difficulty turning the key. This can be due to many factors, including the wrong way to insert a key, or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not common for people to mix their keys up with someone else's. This could cause mechanical damage.

Before contacting a locksmith, you might want to try a few things. First, you'll want to make sure the battery is fully charged and there are no other electrical issues within the system. You should also examine the voltage of every component to see if they're providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the lost ignition key cylinder, which is 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 employ anything from a paintbrush to Kabob stick, but be careful of anything brittle as it could cause damage to the hole.

When you're ready to do the work, you'll have to take off any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. Once you've done this remove and loosen the screws that hold the switch in place, and then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you may also have to unplug any wires connected to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle and model, it will show you exactly how to do this.

If the ignition switch isn't working, it's best to have it replaced by professionals. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without disabling your steering column. This could lead to an accidental airbag being deployed in the event that you don't do it correctly. This is why it's often best to have your auto locksmith ignition replacement take care of this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

Your car may not start if you cannot turn the key or if it isn't starting. This could be due to any number components in the ignition system. It's crucial to understand how the ignition system functions to identify issues and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by the key. It has four positions including off run, accessory, and "lock." When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red), the ignition circuit is live and it is not possible to start the engine.

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 running position. If the voltage is lower than that then 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 from the ignition switch so that no other components can interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance modes and place one lead onto one of the terminals on 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 brand new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle is running and starts correctly. When you replace the switch, ensure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. In the event of a collision, they'll get stuck and your engine won't run. In certain vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult, and it is not recommended until you have an owner’s manual that states it's safe. Otherwise, serious damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is possible.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch but still can't get your car to start, it may be time to examine the cylinder. It's the part that holds your Key stuck in ignition and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock so a would-be thief can't control the car without the key.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you might find that the key ignition replacement doesn't turn. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder are stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which can cause your car to not start. The cylinder could also be loose. A tap using a small tackhammer will aid. Be sure not to mix with the springs and ensure that the key is correctly installed.

Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is when you need to jiggle the key and try multiple positions before it starts. This is a bad sign, and it should be corrected right away as it will only worsen over time.

To check the cylinder, you'll need to unplug your battery and remove the cover from your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own an extra switch, you may be able to bring the original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse so long as they're in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder, be sure to reconnect the wiring harness, secure it in place and reattach any covers or panels you removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. When it breaks it stops the engine from running. This can take the form of your car not running at all, or may start but run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one of several things are preventing or impeding electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which ignites the mixture of fuel and air within your engine.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you work on a safe surface and employing protective gloves and tools to avoid getting zapped. Spark plugs can be extremely hot and cause serious injuries if touched by hands without gloves.

When a spark plug is bad, you might observe that the edge of the central electrode has a slight brown or gray residue on it. The electrode could also have a dark coating. The deposits or fouling may stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you suspect that your spark plugs may be the culprit you can test them if you remove 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 the components that cover the spark plugs. After removing the plugs place them on a metal surface that is grounded, and begin the engine. If they're working you will see an intense blue spark at the tip of central electrode.

If you aren't seeing a spark, you've identified the problem. Next, you'll need to go backwards through your ignition chain and check each component until the spark plugs aren't functioning. It's important to remember that all systems wear down and break down with time and this is particularly the case with ignition systems. Regular maintenance can slow down the process and avoid major problems at the worst possible time.