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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't start unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time could cause the switch to malfunction.
Utilizing special tools, you are able to remove the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Check your repair manual for guidance on how to do this properly.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
One of the most frequent ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, controlling the relays' activation and deactivation. Because it isn't able to channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a less powerful component that is less likely to fail. However, it's still possible for the switch to become damaged or damaged or corroded.
One indication of a defective switch is a difficulty turning the key. This could be due to many factors such as the wrong way to insert a key, or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not common to see people mix keys with keys from someone else's. This can cause 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 aren't any other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. Also, you should examine the voltage of each component to make sure they're providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, you can begin troubleshooting.
Fortunately the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll need an flathead screwdriver as well as something long enough to press the pin into. This can be anything from a paintbrush handle to a kabob skewer, but you should stay clear of anything brittle that could break inside the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that overhang the switch once you're ready to go. After removing the trim pieces, remove any screws that are holding the switch in position. Then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model you may have to cut off the cables that connect to it. You can learn how to do this in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't working it's recommended to replace it by a professional. The replacement process involves disabling the steering column, which could trigger an unintentional deployment of airbags if done incorrectly. For this reason, it is recommended to let the locksmith in your area handle this for you.
2. Check the Wiring
Your car may not start if it is difficult to turn the key or it will not start. This could be due to any variety of components in the ignition system. It's crucial to understand how the ignition system functions to be able to spot problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is operated by a key. It includes four positions "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is locked (which is typically shown by a red light), the ignition circuit is activated and it is not possible to start your car.
You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch or coil. If the ignition switch is running, the voltmeter should show about 12.6, If the voltage drops below that, it indicates there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil itself.
Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure that no other components can interfere with your test. Then set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance mode and put one lead on one of the ignition switch's terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltage gauge shows "open" or does not register any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.
When you're changing the switch, make certain to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. When replacing the switch, be sure not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. Otherwise, they'll become stuck and the engine will not run. You'll need to remove the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in certain vehicles to gain access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge, and it is not recommended until you have an owner's manual that says it's safe. If you don't, it is possible to cause serious damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch, but can't get your car to start, it may be time to look at 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 if it's not there.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder are stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which may cause your car not to start. Or, the cylinder might be shaky and a tap using a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Be sure not to mix the springs, and ensure that your key is correctly inserted.
If you need to jiggle and move the key before it can begin, this is another sign that your cylinder has become damaged. This is a negative sign and must be fixed immediately, since it will only worsen over time.
To check the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery and remove the cover around your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. You'll then be able to pull out the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder made of metal. If you don't own an extra switch, you might be able take the original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse so long they're in good shape. After replacing car ignition replacement and cylinder make sure to reconnect the wiring, secure it and reattach all covers and panels that were removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is your ignition system's final link. When it is damaged it will stop the engine from running. This can take the form of your car not starting at all, or it may start but then run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one of several things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which then ignites the fuel mixture and air within your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure you're working on a safe surface, using protective gloves and tools to keep from getting zapped. Spark plugs can get very hot and could cause serious injuries if touched with bare hands.
When a spark plug goes bad, you might observe that the edge of the electrode's central portion has a light gray or brown substance on it. It could also have a black layer on the side of the electrode. The deposits or fouling may hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap of your spark plug, igniting an engine.
If you suspect your spark plugs could be the culprit, you can test them by having them remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the correct procedure for your vehicle to remove the components that cover the spark plugs. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and then crank the engine. If they are working you will see an intense blue spark at the point of the central electrode.
If you don't see a spark, you've identified the issue. The next step is to go backwards through the ignition chain and test each component until the spark plugs are no longer working. All systems will get older and eventually break, and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can slow down the process and prevent major problems at the worst time.