10 Meetups About Fix Car Ignition You Should Attend
How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't begin unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time normal wear and tear can cause the switch to fail.
You can remove the trim on your steering column using specialized tools to gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right.
1. Check the Switch
A malfunctioning switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It regulates the time when relays are activated and deactivated through the use of bridge. It is more likely to fail since it doesn't channel full power of devices like the starter. However, it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.
One indication of a defective switch is difficulty turning the key. This could be due to various reasons such as the wrong way to insert a key, or the mechanism being worn out over time. It's also common for people to mix up their car keys with the keys of someone else, which can result in mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't working there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no electrical issues in the system. Also, you should check the voltage of each 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 ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. You'll need to use a flathead and a piece of material long enough for you to insert the pin. You can use anything from a paintbrush, to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is brittle, as it can cause damage to the hole.
When you're ready to do the work, you'll need to take off any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After this take off and loosen any screws that are holding the switch in place and then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may be required to disconnect any wires connected to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do this.
It is best to have the ignition switch replaced by professionals when it's not working. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch, without disabling the steering column. This could result in an accidental airbag being deployed in the event that you don't do it correctly. Therefore, it's best to have the locksmith in your area handle this for you.
2. Check the Wire
If you can't turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, your issue could be related to any of the components in your car's ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions so that you can pinpoint problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is turned by the key. It has four positions: off, accessory, run and "lock." When the switch is in the lock position (which usually has the red indicator), the ignition circuit is active and it's not possible to start the engine.
To determine whether the ignition switch damaged or if the ignition coil itself is bad, you have to conduct an electrical test with an Voltmeter. When the ignition switch is set to run at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read approximately 12.6, If the voltage drops below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be a solenoid, battery, or the ignition coil.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure that no other components interfere with the test. Then you should set the voltmeter in the resistance or continuity mode and place one lead on one of the ignition switch's terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If mobile ignition lock repair services shows "open" or does not register any voltage it's time to replace the switch.
Use a new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. Also, when replacing the ignition switch, be careful not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools or they'll get stuck and your engine won't start. You'll have to take off the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in certain vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and is not recommended unless you have an owner's guideline that says that it is safe to do so. Otherwise, serious damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've worked your way through the battery, wiring and ignition switch but you can't get your car start, it may be time to look at the cylinder. The cylinder is the component which holds the key and is mechanically linked to the steering lock so that a would-be burglar can't drive the car without it.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you may be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. The pins in the cylinder may become stuck as they adapt to your key's shape. This can cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder might also be loose. A tap using a small tackhammer will aid. Be sure not to mix the springs, and make sure your key is correctly inserted.
If you are required to move the key before it will begin, it is a indication that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a sign of trouble and should be corrected right away because it will get worse over time.
To check the cylinder, you'll need to unplug your battery and remove the cover on your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. You should then be able to pull out the old ignition switch as well as the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have an additional ignition switch around, it's possible to take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a locksmith to reuse them as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder make sure to reconnect the wiring, secure it and reattach the panels and covers that you removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the last link in your ignition system chain. When it breaks it will stop the engine from running. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or may start but not run well. In any case, the root is likely to be one of several factors that block or hinder the flow of electricity across the spark plug gap, which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture to start.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you are working on a safe surface and employing protective gloves and tools to avoid being struck. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when you touch them with your naked skin.
You might notice a light brown or gray residue on the tip of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. It may also have a black coating on the sides of the electrode. These deposits, also known as corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and sparking your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs could be to blame you can test them by taking them from their tube in the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire and following the appropriate procedure for your car to remove the components that cover the spark plugs. Once you have removed the plugs you can place them on a grounded metal surface and crank the engine. If they're functioning, you should be able to see a strong blue spark at the point of the central electrode.
If you aren't seeing a spark, you've identified the problem. The next step is to work back through the ignition system chain, testing each part until you can determine what is stopping the spark plugs from doing their job. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break over time and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. However, regular maintenance can help slow the process down and avoid a major problem at the worst moment.