11 Ways To Completely Revamp Your Fix Car Ignition
How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car will not start unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time can cause the switch malfunction.
With the help of specialized tools, you are able to remove your steering column trim and access the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for 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 functions as a bridge between two contacts, regulating the time when relays are activated and deactivated. Because it isn't able to channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a less powerful component that's less likely to fail. The switch could still be damaged or corrosion-prone.
One sign of a bad switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This could be due to various factors that include incorrectly inserting the key or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's also commonplace for people to mistake their car keys with another's, which could lead to mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't working there are some 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. Also, you should check the voltage of every component to ensure they are sufficient power. After you've completed the above steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of equipment that holds everything together. It's necessary to use a flathead and a piece of material that is long enough to insert the pin. This can be anything from paintbrush handles to Kabob skewer, but you should avoid using anything that is brittle and break within the hole.
Once you're ready to complete the work, you'll have to take off any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. Once you've done this take off and loosen any screws that are holding the switch in place and then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you may also need to disconnect any wires connected to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do this.
It's best to get the ignition switch replaced by professionals in the event that it isn't working. 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. It is recommended to allow your locksmith to take care of this.
2. Check the Wiring
Your car may not start if you are unable to turn the ignition key or it won't start. This could be due to a variety of components in the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works can help you spot problems and make the appropriate repairs.
The ignition switch is an electrical switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It has four positions that are off run, accessory, and "lock." When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has a red indicator), the ignition circuit is in operation and it is not possible to start the engine.
To determine if the ignition switch is damaged or if the ignition coil is faulty, you'll must conduct a quick electrical test with an voltage meter. When the ignition switch is set to run at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read around 12.6, If the voltage is below that then there is an open circuit within the system. This could be a solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil.
Connect the electrical connector to ensure that it doesn't interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and put one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage meter reads "open" or doesn't register any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.
When replacing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your car will run and start correctly. When replacing the switch, ensure not to touch the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and your engine will not run. In certain vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and the gear selector to get 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 or shifting mechanism is possible.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch, but you are still unable to get your car to start it could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the component that holds the key. It is mechanically linked to the steering lock so that thieves can't drive the car without it.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. Sometimes, Additional Info in the cylinder are stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which can cause your car not to start. The cylinder might also be loose. A tap using the tackhammer can help. Be careful not to disturb the springs within and make sure that your key is correctly inserted before tapping.
Another sign that your cylinder is in trouble is when you need to move the key around and try multiple positions before it starts. This is a negative sign and should be corrected right away because it will get worse over time.
To test the cylinder, you'll need to unplug your battery, and then remove the cover from your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own a spare switch, you may be able take your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to locksmiths for reuse so long they're in good shape. After replacing the switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness, secure it in place and reattach any covers, or panels you've removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. The engine will not run when the spark plug is broken. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or may start but run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one or more things are preventing or impeding electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which ignites the mixture of fuel and air in your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you work on a level surface and using gloves and tools that are protected to keep from getting struck. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injuries if you touch them with bare skin.
You may notice a light gray or brown fleck on the tip of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. It could also have a black layer on the side of the electrode. These deposits, or corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs may be the culprit you can test them by having them remove the plugs from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the appropriate procedure for your car to remove components that cover the spark plugs. After you have removed the plugs you can place them on a grounded metal surface and turn the engine. If they're good you will see a strong blue spark across the gap in the middle of the central electrode.
If you do not detect a spark, you've identified the problem. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the chain of ignition and test each component until the spark plugs stop working. Every system will wear out and eventually fail, and this is particularly relevant to ignition systems. However, regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and avoid a major problem at the worst moment.