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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car will not start until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time, normal wear and tear can cause the switch to fail.

You can remove the steering column trim with specialized tools to access the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it correctly.

1. Make sure you check the Switch

One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It regulates the moment relays are activated, and deactivated, acting as a bridge. Because it doesn't harness the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that's less likely to fail. However it's still possible for the switch to get damaged or corroded.

A malfunctioning switch can be identified by a difficult time turning the key. This can be due to a number of factors, including the wrong way to insert a key, or wearing down the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon for people to confuse their keys with keys from someone else's. This can result in mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith you can try a few things. First, you'll need to make sure the battery is fully charged and there are no other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. Also, you should examine the voltage of each component to ensure that they are sufficient power. After you've completed these steps, it's now time to start troubleshooting.

Fortunately, the ignition switch is simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of equipment that holds everything together. You'll need an elongated flathead as well as something long enough to push the pin into. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything brittle as it could cause damage to the hole.

When you're ready to do the work, you'll have to take off any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After taking off the trim pieces, take off any screws that hold the switch in place. Then carefully remove it. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do this.

If the ignition switch isn't working it is recommended to replace it by an expert. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column, which could trigger an unintentional deployment of airbags if done incorrectly. Therefore, it is recommended to let the locksmith in your area handle this for you.

2. Check the Wire

If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car isn't starting, your issue could be related to any of the parts of your car's ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions so that you can pinpoint issues and make the necessary repairs.

The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is turned by the key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is live and it is not possible to start the engine.

You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch or coil. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the run position. If the voltage falls below that, there is an open circuit within the system. It could be the solenoid, the battery, or the ignition coil.

Remove the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance modes and place 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 shows "open" or does not show any voltage, it is recommended to replace the switch.

Use a brand new ignition key and high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle is running and starts correctly. When fix ignition switch replace the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and your engine won't be able to run. In certain vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and the gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and shouldn't be done 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 possible.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the wiring, battery, and ignition switch and still cannot get your car to start, it might be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the part that holds the key and is mechanically linked to the steering lock so that burglars won't be able to drive the car without it.

You might notice that your key will not turn if the cylinder is worn out. The pins of the cylinder may become stuck as they adjust to the shape of your key. This could cause your car to not start. The cylinder could also be loose. Tapping it with a small tackhammer will help. Be careful not to crush the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is correctly placed before tapping.

If you are required to move the key before it will begin, it is a indication that your cylinder is been damaged. This is a bad indication and needs to be fixed immediately, as it will only get worse with time.

To test the cylinder, you must remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be easy to take off, as will the cylinder made of steel. If you don't have an extra switch, you might be able take the original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse so 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 all covers and panels that you removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition system chain. The engine cannot start if the spark plug breaks. This can take the form of your car not starting at all, or it may start but run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one of several things are preventing or impeding electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which then ignites the mixture of fuel and air within your engine.

Be sure to use gloves and protective tools before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injury when you touch them with your skin.





If a spark plug goes bad, you may notice that the tip of the electrode's central portion has a slight brown or gray substance on it. The electrode may also have a dark coating. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from crossing the spark plug gap and sparking your engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs could be the culprit You could test them by remove them from their tube inside the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the appropriate procedure for your car to remove the components that cover the spark plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a metal surface that is grounded, and start the engine. If they're working, you should be able to see a strong blue spark at the tip of central electrode.

If you don't detect a spark, you've discovered the problem. The next step is to work through the ignition chain, testing each element until you find out what's hindering the spark plugs from doing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually break This is especially applicable to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and avoid a major headache at the worst possible time.