10 Facts About Fix Car Ignition That Can Instantly Put You In An Optimistic Mood
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 can cause the switch to malfunction.
Using special tools, you can remove the steering column trim and access the ignition cylinder module. Refer to G28 Car Keys for learn how to do it right.
1. Check the Switch
A malfunctioning switch is among the most common ignition issues. It controls when relays are activated and deactivated through the use of bridge. It is less likely to fail due to the fact that it does not channel the full power of devices like the starter. However it's still possible for the switch to get damaged or corroded.
A malfunctioning switch is identified by a difficulty turning the key. This could be due to a variety of things such as incorrectly inserting the key or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's not common for people to mix keys with keys from someone else's. This can cause mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith you may try a few options. First, you'll need to make sure that the battery is fully charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues within the system. It is also important to test the voltage of each component to determine if they're providing enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you can begin troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that holds everything together. You'll need to use an elongated flathead as well as something that is long enough to push the pin into. You can make use of anything from a paintbrush, to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything brittle as it could break into the hole.
When you're ready to do the work, you'll have to take off any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After that take off and loosen any screws that keep the switch in place then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do this.
If the ignition switch isn't working it's recommended to have it replaced by an expert. The replacement process involves turning off the steering column, which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it's done in a wrong manner. It is best to leave it to your local locksmith to take care of this.
2. Check the Wire
Your car may not start if you cannot turn the ignition key or it isn't starting. This could be due a number of components within the ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions so that you can pinpoint issues and make the appropriate repairs.
The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It has four positions including off, accessory, run and "lock." If the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start the engine.
You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch and ignition 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 a solenoid, battery or the ignition coil.
Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch so that no other components can interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and then place one lead on one of the terminals of the ignition switch. The other lead should go to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage gauge reads "open" or does not register any voltage it's time to replace the switch.
When you're replacing the switch, make sure to use a brand new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. When replacing the ignition switch, you must be cautious not to touch the ignition cylinder pins with your tools, or they'll become stuck and your engine will not start. You'll need to take off the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in some vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge, and it is not recommended until you have an owner’s manual that states it's safe. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've worked your way through the wiring, battery and ignition switch and still you can't get your car start, it might be time to examine the cylinder. It's the part that holds your key, and is mechanically connected to the lock on the steering wheel so a would-be thief can't drive the car without the key.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you could find that the key doesn't turn. The pins of the cylinder may become stuck as they adapt to your key's shape. This could cause your car to not 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 jumble the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is correctly installed prior to tapping.
Another sign that your cylinder is in trouble is when you have to turn the key and try different positions before it begins. This is a bad sign and must be addressed immediately as it will only worsen over time.
To test the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery and take off the cover around your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. You'll then be able to remove the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own a spare switch, you might be able to bring your original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse so long they're in good shape. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, make sure to reconnect the wiring and secure it before reattaching the covers and panels you took off.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the last link in your ignition system chain. The engine won't start in the event that the spark plug fails. This could take the form of your car not starting at all, or may start but then run poorly. In either case, it is likely that one or more things are preventing or impeding electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the fuel mixture and air in your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you are working on a safe surface and employing protective gloves and tools to prevent getting struck. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when you touch them with bare skin.
There may be a slight gray or brown residue on the tip of the electrode if a spark plug is bad. The electrode could also be covered with a dark coating. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from crossing the spark plug gap and igniting your engine.
If you think that your spark plugs could be to blame, you can test them by taking them from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. Then, you'll have to follow the proper procedure for your vehicle to take off the components that are covering the plugs. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and turn the engine. If they're functioning, you should see an intense blue spark near the point of the central electrode.
If you don't see a spark, you've discovered the problem. The next step is to go backwards through the chain of ignition and test each component until the spark plugs aren't functioning. All systems wear out and eventually fail and this is especially true for ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and prevent major problems in the worst case.