14 Cartoons On Fix Car Ignition To Brighten Your Day
How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
A car won't start unless the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time could result in the switch not functioning properly.
Using special tools, you can take off your steering column trim and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair manual to learn how to do it correctly.
1. Check the Switch
A malfunctioning switch is among the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It controls the moment relays are activated, and deactivated through the use of bridge. Since it doesn't transmit the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter component that is less likely to fail. However, it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.
One sign of a damaged switch is difficulty turning the key. This could be due to various reasons such as incorrectly inserting a key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's also common for people to mistake their keys to their car with another's, which could result in mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't working, there are a few things you could try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll need to make sure that the battery is charged and that there are no other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. Also, you should test the voltage of each component to determine if they're providing enough power. Once you've completed these steps, it's now time to begin troubleshooting.
Luckily, the ignition switch is pretty simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round component that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver and something that is long enough to push the pin inside. This can be anything from a paintbrush handle to a kabob skewer, but you should stay clear of any brittle material that could break inside the hole.
Remove any trimming pieces that overhang the switch when you're ready to get started. 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 might be required to disconnect the wires that connect to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle and model, it will show you exactly how to do it.
If the ignition switch isn't functioning it is recommended to replace it by a professional. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch, without disabling your steering column. This could lead to the unintentional airbag deployment if you do it incorrectly. For this reason, it's often best to have your local locksmith handle this for you.
2. Check the Wire
Your car might not start if you are unable to turn the ignition key or it won't start. This could be due to any variety of components in the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you identify problems and make the appropriate repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is turned by the key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is locked (which is usually shown by the red light), the ignition circuit is activated and it is inaccessible to start your vehicle.
To determine whether the ignition switch defective or if the ignition coil is bad, you need to do a quick electrical test with an voltage meter. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage is below that then there is an open circuit within the system. It could be the solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure that there are no other components that could interfere with your test. Then you should set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance mode and put one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should go to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltmeter reads "open" or doesn't show any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.
Use a brand new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure that your vehicle starts and runs correctly. Also, when replacing the ignition switch, you must be careful not to strike the ignition cylinder pins with your tools, or they'll get stuck and the engine will not start. In certain vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and is not recommended unless you have an owner's manual that states that it is safe to do so. If you don't you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've sifted through the wiring, battery, and ignition switch and still can't get your car to start, it could be time to check the cylinder. It's the part that holds your key and is connected to the lock on the steering wheel to ensure that thieves can't control the car without a key.
You might notice that your key will not turn if the cylinder has worn out. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder are stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key, which may cause your car to not start. Or, the cylinder might be loose however a tap using the small hammer from a tack can assist in releasing it. Just be careful not to jumble the springs in the cylinder and ensure that the key is correctly placed before tapping.
Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is when you need to turn the key and test it in various positions before it starts. This is a sign of trouble and should be addressed immediately, as it will continue to get worse as time passes.
To check the cylinder, you'll need to disconnect your battery and take off the cover on your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as well as the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able 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, ensure that you reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the covers and panels you took off.
4. Check Spark Plugs
The spark plug is your ignition system's last link. When it breaks, the engine can't run. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but not run well. In any case, the root is likely to be one of several things that hinder or prevent electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap, which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture to run.
Before G28 Car Keys begin working on your spark plugs, be sure you're working on a safe surface, using gloves and tools that are protected to keep from getting hit with. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury if you touch them with bare skin.
If a spark plug goes bad, you might observe that the edge of the electrode's central portion has a slight brown or gray residue on it. It may also have a black coating on the sides of the electrode. These deposits or fouling can stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.
If you believe that your spark plugs could be at fault You can test them by taking them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the correct procedure for your vehicle to remove 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 are working you should be able to see a strong blue spark near the tip of central electrode.
If you do not see a spark you have identified the problem. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the chain of ignition and test each component until the spark plugs are no longer working. Every system will wear out and eventually fail, and this is particularly true for ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to reduce the time it takes to repair and avoid a major headache in the worst case.