How to fix ignition switch car ignition [click here!] Problems

The car won't start until the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time normal wear and tear may cause the switch to fail.

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

1. Make sure you check the Switch

One of the most common ignition problems is a bad switch. It acts as an intermediary between two contacts, controlling the relays' activation and deactivation. Because it isn't able to transmit the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that's less likely fail. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone.

One indication of a defective switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This can be caused by various factors that include incorrectly inserting the key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon to see people mix their keys up with someone else's. This could 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 in the system. You should also examine the voltage of each component to ensure that they are providing enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.

Fortunately, the ignition switch is simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of equipment that connects everything. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to push the pin into. This could be anything from an artist's brush to a Kabob skewer. However, you should stay clear of anything brittle that could break within the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that cover the area around the switch when you are ready to go. Once you've done this, loosen and remove any screws that keep the switch in place then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may have to cut off the cables that connect to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle and model, it will show you exactly how to do it.

If the ignition switch isn't working it is recommended to replace it by an expert. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column which could result in unintentional deployment of airbags if done in a wrong manner. For this reason, it's often best to have your locksmith take care of this for you.

2. Check the Wire

If you can't turn the key in the ignition lock repair or your car won't start, the issue could be related to any of the parts of your car's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions can help you spot problems and make the correct 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." 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 damaged or the ignition coil is bad, you have to conduct an electrical test with the help of a Voltmeter. 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 means there's an open circuit somewhere in the system. It could be the solenoid, battery or the ignition coil.

Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch to ensure that no other components can interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and then 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 voltmeter is "open" or does a new ignition switch require a new key not show any voltage, you should replace the switch.

If you're replacing the switch, be sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. Also, when replacing the ignition switch, be careful not to hit the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools or they'll get stuck and your engine will not start. In certain vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and the gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and isn't recommended until you have an owner’s guideline that states it's safe. If you don't, it is possible to cause severe damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you have tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch, but still cannot get your car ignition switch repair to start, it may be time to inspect the cylinder. The cylinder is the piece that holds the key and is mechanically connected to the steering lock to ensure that thieves can't drive the car if it's not there.

If your cylinder has started to wear out, you may be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder get stuck when they adjust to the shape of your key, which could cause your car not to start. The cylinder could also be sloppy. A tap using the tackhammer can help. Be sure not to mix with the springs and ensure that the key is correctly inserted.

Another indication that your cylinder is failing is when you have to turn the key and try multiple positions before it starts. This is a red flag and needs to be fixed immediately, as it will only get worse with time.

To check the cylinder you will need to remove the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have an extra ignition switch lying around, it's possible to take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith and reuse them as long as they're in good condition. 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 Spark Plugs

The spark plug is your ignition system's final link. The engine will not start in the event that the spark plug fails. It could be that your car won't start at all or it will 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 in turn ignites the air and fuel mixture inside your engine.

Make sure you wear protective tools and gloves before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can get very hot and can cause serious injuries if they are touched with bare hands.

If a spark plug goes bad, you may be able to see that the top of the central electrode is covered with a slight brown or gray residue on it. The electrode could also be covered with a dark coating. The deposits or fouling may stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you believe that your spark plugs may be to blame, you can test them by taking them 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 any components that are covering the spark plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded. Then begin the engine. If they are working you should be able to see a strong blue spark near the tip of central electrode.

If you don't see a spark, you've identified the issue. Next, you'll need to go backwards through your ignition chain and check each component until the spark plugs aren't functioning. 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 help to slow down the process and avoid a major headache at the worst moment.