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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't begin until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time, normal wear and tear could cause the switch to malfunction.
Utilizing special tools, you can take off the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair manual to learn how to do it right.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
One of the most frequent ignition problems is a bad switch. It controls the moment relays are activated, and deactivated by acting as a bridge. Because it doesn't harness the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a less powerful component that's less likely fail. The switch can still be damaged or damaged or corroded.
A defective switch is identified by a difficult time turning the key. This could be due to many things such as improperly inserting the key, or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon for people to mix keys with keys from someone else's. This could cause mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't functioning there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll need to ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues in the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of every component to determine if they're capable of supplying enough power. Once you've done these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.
Fortunately the ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that connects everything. It's necessary to use an elongated flathead as well as something that is long enough to insert the pin. This can be anything from paintbrush handles to Kabob skewer. However, it is best to avoid anything that is brittle and break within the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that are covering the area around the switch once you're ready to work. After taking off the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in position. Then, carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you might need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do this.
It's best to get the ignition switch replaced by a professional in the event that it isn't working. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column, which may trigger unintentional deployment of airbags if done incorrectly. It is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this.
2. Verify the Wire
If you're unable to turn the ignition key or your car won't start, the issue could be due to any of the components in your car's ignition system. It's crucial to understand how the ignition system works to be able to spot problems and make the right repairs.
The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch that 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 active and it is inaccessible to start your car.
You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch or ignition coil. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage is lower than that then there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the ignition coil itself.
Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch so that no other components interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance modes and connect one lead onto one of the terminals of the ignition switch. The other lead should go to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage gauge reads "open" or does not register any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.
Use a brand new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure that your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the switch, ensure not to strike the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and the engine will not run. You'll have to take off the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in certain vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and isn't recommended until you have an owner's manual that says it's safe. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is possible.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you have tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch but still can't start your car it could be time to examine the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key, and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock to ensure that thieves can't control the car without a key.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you could notice that the key won't turn. ignition key replacement cost of the cylinder could become stuck as they adapt to your key's shape. This can cause your car to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be shaky and a tap using a small tack hammer can help to free it. Just be careful not to crush the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is correctly inserted before tapping.
Another indication that your cylinder is in trouble is when you need to move the key around and test it in various positions before it begins. This is a bad sign, and it must be addressed immediately as it will only get worse with time.
To check the cylinder you must remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. You'll then be able to remove the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own a spare switch, you may be able to bring the original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder, be sure to reconnect the wiring harness, secure it in place and reattach any covers or panels you removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the ignition system's final link. If it fails it stops the engine from running. It could be that your car won't start at all or will run badly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which ignites the air and fuel mixture within your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you work on a safe surface and using gloves and tools that are protected to keep from getting struck. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injury when you touch them with your naked skin.
There may be a slight gray or brown fleck on the edge of the electrode if the spark plug is defective. It could also have a black coating on the opposite side of the electrode. These deposits, also known as fouling, can stop high-voltage electricity from crossing the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs could be at fault You can test them by removing 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 you have removed the plugs you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and turn the engine. If they're working, you should see a strong blue spark extending across the gap in the middle of the central electrode.
If you don't see a spark, you've found the issue. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the chain of ignition and test each component until the spark plugs stop working. All systems get older and eventually break, and this is particularly relevant to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can slow down the process and prevent an issue at the worst time.
