How to fix ignition switch Car Ignition Problems

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

Using special tools, you are able to remove the trim on your steering column and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Check your repair manual for guidance on how to do this correctly.

1. Make sure you check the Switch

A malfunctioning switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It controls when relays are activated and deactivated, acting as a bridge. It is less likely to fail because it does not channel full power from devices such as the starter. The switch can still be damaged or corroded.

A malfunctioning switch can be recognized by a slow time turning the key. This can be caused by a number of factors that include not inserting the correct key correctly or the mechanism being worn out over time. It's also common for people to mistake their keys to their car with someone else's, which can cause mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't working, there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you must ensure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any electrical issues with the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are supplying enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.

Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of equipment that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to press the pin into. This could be anything from paintbrush handles to kabob skewer, but you should avoid using anything that is brittle and break within the hole.

When you're ready to do the work, you'll have to take away any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After you've removed the trim pieces take off any screws that hold the switch in position. Then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model you may have to cut off any cables that connect to it. You can find out how to do this in the manual of your vehicle.

It is best to have the ignition switch replaced by a professional when it's not working. It is possible to replace it by turning off the steering column, which could result in unintentional airbag deployment 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're unable to turn the ignition key or your car won't start, your issue could be related to any number of components in your car's 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 can be operated by a key. It has four positions including off, accessory, run and "lock." When the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by the red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start your vehicle.

To determine if the ignition switch is damaged or if the ignition coil itself is faulty, you'll have to conduct an electrical test with an voltage meter. If the ignition switch is running and the voltmeter is reading around 12.6, If the voltage drops below that, it indicates there's an open circuit in the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or even the ignition coil itself.

Remove the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Then, set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and place one lead on one of the ignition switch terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or does not register any voltage it's time to replace the switch.

Use a new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and your engine will not run. In some vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and isn't recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's guideline that states it's safe. If you do not then you could cause severe damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the wiring, battery and ignition switch and still you can't get your car start, it could be time to look at the cylinder. The cylinder is the component that holds the key. It is mechanically attached to the steering lock to ensure that thieves can't drive the car without it.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you might find that the key doesn't turn. Sometimes, the pins inside the cylinder become stuck when they adjust to the shape of your key stuck in ignition, which could cause your car not to start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be loose however a tap using the small hammer from a tack can help to free it. Just be careful not to crush the springs within and make sure that the key is correctly placed before tapping.

If you need to move the key before it can start, this is another sign that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a bad indication and should be addressed immediately, since it will continue to get worse as time passes.

To check the cylinder you'll need to take off the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as should the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able to take your original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths 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 you took off.

4. Check Spark Plugs

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

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you work on a level surface and employing protective gloves and tools to prevent being zapped. Spark plugs can get very hot and can cause serious injuries if handled with hands that are not protected.

When a spark plug is bad, you might be able to see that the top of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. It could also have a black coating on the sides of the electrode. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from crossing the spark plug gap and igniting your engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs may be the culprit you can test them if you remove them from their tube inside the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire and following the correct procedure for your car to remove any components that are covering the spark plugs. After you have removed the plugs you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and then crank the engine. If they're working you will see a bright blue spark extending across the gap in the middle of the central electrode.

If you don't see a spark, you've found the problem. The next step is to work back through the ignition system chain, testing each component until you find out what's hindering the spark plugs from doing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually fail, and this is particularly true for ignition systems. Regular maintenance can slow down the process and prevent major problems at the worst time.