10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden That'll Help You With Fix Car Ignition
How to Fix ignition and key replacement won't start until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time normal wear and tear could cause the switch to fail.
Utilizing special tools, you can remove the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right.
1. Check the Switch
One of the most common ignition problems is a bad switch. It controls the moment relays are activated, and deactivated by acting as a bridge. It is more likely to fail since it doesn't channel full power of devices such as the starter. However, it's still possible for the switch to become damaged or damaged or corroded.
One indication of a defective switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This can be caused by a variety of things, including improperly inserting the key, or the mechanism wearing out over time. It is also common for people to misplace their keys to their car with someone else's, which can lead to mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith, you can try a few things. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any electrical issues with the system. You should also verify the voltage of every component to ensure they are sufficient power. After you've completed the above steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.
Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of metal that connects everything. It's necessary to use a flathead and something long enough 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 be broken into the hole.
Remove any trimming pieces that cover the area around the switch when you're ready to go. After you've removed the trim pieces remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then carefully remove it. Depending on the model, you might also have to unplug the wires that connect to it. You can learn how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't working, it's best to replace it by an expert. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it's done improperly. This is why it's often best to have your local locksmith handle this for you.
2. Check the Wire
The car may not start if you cannot turn the ignition key or it isn't starting. This could be due to a number components in the ignition system. It is important to know how the ignition system functions so that you can pinpoint issues and make the appropriate repairs.
The ignition switch is an electrical switch with multiple poles that is operated by the key. It has four positions that are off run, accessory, and "lock." When the switch is locked (which is usually shown by an red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start your car.
You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch and ignition coil. When the ignition switch is set to run at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read about 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that it indicates that there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be the solenoid, battery or the ignition coil.
Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch so that no other components interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance modes and connect 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 shows "open" or fails to show any voltage, you should replace the switch.
When replacing the switch, make sure to use a brand new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. When replacing the ignition switch, be cautious not to touch 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 some vehicles to gain access to the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and is not recommended unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do this. Otherwise, serious damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch, but still can't get your car started It could be time to check the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock so that a potential thief cannot steer the car without keys.
You may be noticing that your key does not rotate if the cylinder is worn out. The pins in the cylinder could become stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key. This can cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder could also be shaky however a tap using the small hammer from a tack can assist in releasing it. Be careful not to jumble the springs inside and ensure that the key is correctly placed before tapping.
If you are required to jiggle and move the key before it will begin, it is a sign that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a bad indication and should be addressed immediately, as it can continue to get worse as time passes.
To examine the cylinder, you will need to remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as should the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't own a spare switch, you might be able to take your original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse so long as they're in good working order. After replacing the switch and cylinder, be sure to reconnect the wiring harness and secure it and then reattach any covers or panels you've removed.
4. Check Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the final link in your ignition system chain. When it is damaged it will stop the engine from running. This could take the form of your car not starting at all, or it could start but then run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one or more factors are hindering or blocking electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the mixture of fuel and air within your engine.
Make sure you wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injuries when you touch them with your skin.
You may notice a light gray or brown fleck on the tip of the electrode if a spark plug is bad. It could also have a black layer on the side of the electrode. These deposits, or corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs may be the cause, you can test them if you remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. After that, you'll be required to follow the correct procedure for your car to remove the components that surround the plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded. Then start the engine. If they are good you should see a strong blue spark across the gap between the tip of the central electrode.
If you do not see a spark, you've identified the problem. Next, you'll need to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each part until the spark plugs aren't functioning. It's important to remember that all systems wear out and break down with time, and this is especially the case with ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can help slow the process down and avoid a big problem at the worst time.