How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
A car won’t start unless the ignition switch sends the electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time, normal wear and tear could cause the switch to malfunction.
You can remove the steering column trim with 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
One of the most common mobile ignition lock repair services issues is a malfunctioning switch. It regulates the time when relays are activated and deactivated through the use of a bridge. Because it isn’t able to transmit the full power of devices like the starter, it’s a less powerful component that’s less likely fail. However it’s still possible for the switch to be damaged or damaged or corroded.
One sign of a bad switch is difficulty turning the key. This could be due to many things that include incorrectly inserting the key or the mechanism wearing out over time. It’s also commonplace for people to mistake their car ignition switch keys with the keys of someone else, which can lead to mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith, you might want to try a few things. First, make sure the battery is fully charged and there aren’t any other electrical issues within the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are sufficient power. Once you’ve completed these steps, it’s time to start troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is simple to replace. It’s connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that holds everything together. You’ll need to use a flathead and a piece of material long enough for you to push the pin into. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to Kabob stick, but be careful of anything brittle as it could break into the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that overhang the switch once you’re ready to get started. After that remove and loosen the screws that hold the switch in place then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. You can learn how to do this in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
It is best to have the ignition switch replaced by professionals when it’s not working. It’s difficult to replace the ignition switch, without disabling your steering column. This could result in the unintentional deployment of airbags when you don’t do it correctly. It is recommended to allow your locksmith to handle this.
2. Check the Wiring
If you are unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car ignition locked won’t start, your problem could be related to any number of components of your vehicle’s ignition system. It is important to know 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 that is turned by the key. It includes four positions “off”, “accessory”, “run” and the “lock”. If the switch is locked (which is usually marked by an red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is inaccessible to start your vehicle.
You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch and ignition coil. The voltmeter should read around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the run position. If the voltage falls below that level, it’s a sign there’s an open circuit in the system. This could be a solenoid, battery or the ignition coil.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure there are no other components that could interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and connect one lead on one of the terminals of the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter is “open” or does not register any voltage, you should replace the switch.
When you’re replacing the switch, be certain to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. When you replace the switch, be sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. Otherwise, they will become stuck and the engine won’t be able to run. In some vehicles, you’ll have to remove the steering column and the gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and shouldn’t be done unless you have an owner’s manual that indicates that it is safe to do so. If you do not then you could cause serious damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you’ve worked your way through the wiring, battery and ignition switch and still can’t get your car to start, it might be time to check the cylinder. It’s the component that holds your key and is connected to the steering wheel lock so a would-be thief can’t control the car without a key.
You might observe that your key will not rotate if the cylinder is worn out. The pins of the cylinder could become stuck as they adapt to your key’s shape. This can cause your vehicle to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be shaky and a tap using the small hammer from a tack can aid in releasing it. Be careful not to mix up the springs and make sure your key is properly placed.
Another indication that your cylinder is going bad is if you have to move the key around and try different positions before it starts. This is a sign of trouble, and it should be corrected right away, since it will only get worse over time.
To check the cylinder, you’ll need to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover on your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. You’ll then be able to remove the old ignition switch as well as the metal lost ignition key cylinder. If you don’t have an additional ignition switch around, it’s likely that you could take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith and reuse them, as long as they’re in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring and secure it before reattaching the panels and covers that you removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is your ignition system’s final link. When it breaks it stops the engine from running. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or may 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 then ignites the fuel mixture and air within your engine.
Make sure you wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injuries when you touch them with your naked skin.
You might notice a light gray or brown residue on the tip of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. The electrode may also have a dark coating. The deposits or fouling may prevent high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.
If you suspect your spark plugs may be the culprit you can test them if you 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 proper procedure for your vehicle to remove the components that cover the spark plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded and start the engine. If they’re good you should be able to see a strong blue spark across the gap between the tip of the central electrode.
If you don’t see a spark, you’ve identified the problem. The next step is to work through the ignition chain, testing each element until you find out what’s blocking the spark plugs from performing their job. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear down and break over time and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the time it takes to repair and avoid a major headache at the worst possible time.
