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How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
There are a myriad of reasons your car might be running and starting but the ignition won't turn on the spark plugs. Some are easy and inexpensive to repair, while others require specialized equipment and assistance of mechanics.
Lubricate the key socket first. You can use graphite powder or a silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder is free of no obstructions or loose springs.
Battery
If your car won't start it could be because your battery is dead. This is a common problem which can be resolved by an extra jump or charging the battery. If this does not solve the issue, it's possible that the ignition switch is bad. This component is responsible for transferring power from the battery to other electrical components like the starter motor and ignition coil. If the ignition switch is not working properly, it will not allow current to flow through, and the engine won't begin.
The battery is the primary source of electrical energy in your vehicle. It's a black box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on the top. The terminals may become damaged, preventing the battery from supplying electricity to the rest of the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery you can use a wire bristle to remove any corrosion. You can also clean the terminals with baking soda.
It's also possible that your car battery has just reached the end of its life and requires replacement. A new battery will supply the proper voltage to your vehicle’s spark plugs. This is essential for a properly functioning engine.
The ignition coil is responsible for changing low voltage from the battery to high voltage that can ignite the spark plugs in your car to start the engine. If your ignition coil is defective and not functioning properly, it will not be able to ignite the plugs. Your engine won't start. You can test the ignition coil by checking for a spark in the engine or turning the key to see if the engine turns over.
It is also possible to replace your starter motor. If you hear a grating sound when you turn on your ignition, it is a sign that the bearings inside the starter are beginning to wear out. It is a costly repair, so it is recommended to replace your starter motor immediately if you detect signs of wear. The starter motor can be replaced by replacing some bolts and other components.
Alternator
The alternator is the one that charges your battery and powers the electrical parts of your car when the engine is running. Examine the battery first if you suspect that your alternator may be malfunctioning. This will help you determine if the alternator is causing the battery to drain or your battery is simply old and should be replaced.
When the vehicle is idle the alternator is able to supply power to the dash lights and radio. It also powers the windshield wipers as well as the power windows, electric steering, the heated seats and the power windows. You can use a voltmeter examine your battery and alternator for the proper voltage levels. If your battery is less than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged right away. A dead or low-volt battery can also stop the starter motor from turning the engine over and will require more jumper cables to start your car.
Before you begin dismantling the alternator, switch off the ignition and secure all doors. Remove the negative cable and store it in a safe place. Wear safety equipment. Consult G28 Car Keys for instructions on how to gain access to the alternator as well as any other parts you need to take off.
If your car has a warning light wire, you can remove it from the side of the generator after removing the belt. This wire will connect directly to an alternator terminal identified WL or IN. Some vehicles, however, have a separate relay to perform this purpose. If your warning light does not appear, it is likely that there is an issue that is not related to the one you are experiencing.
The alternator is an essential component of your vehicle, and you must inspect it regularly for signs of problems. While you could perform some of the checks yourself, it's best to bring your vehicle into Les Schwab for a free inspection and expert advice. Our trained technicians can test your battery posts, battery (the terminals that are marked + and -) for corrosion and fuses, relays, voltage output and cold cranking amps, and more to determine what the issue is.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential component in the ignition system. It is responsible for turning over the engine to draw in air, which is required to ignite the fuel. When your car won't start it's usually caused by a problem with the starter motor. There are several ways to troubleshoot to help you determine the problem and fix it.
When you turn on your car's ignition key, a switch inside the starter activates a pinion gear that fits into grooves in the flywheel. The pinion gear turns the flywheel, which in turn starts the engine. When you release the key the pinion gear retracts and is released from the flywheel to avoid damage.
There are a variety of things that could go wrong with the starter motor, including an electrical failure in the internal windings, a mechanical issue (such as teeth not meshing on the pinion gear or flywheel) or a dead battery. A malfunctioning starter motor may sound like a dead cell phone battery. It will make a clunk sound as it attempts to turn the engine over.
The condition of the battery and the terminals of the battery will be checked by a technician in the event that the starter motor does not work. If the battery is low or has rust on its terminals it will require charging or replaced.
Depending on the severity of the issue, the mechanic could test the starter solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid is a huge magnetic switch that transmits a rush of power from the battery cables that are thick to the starter. The switch connects the long cable from the battery to starter's windings that will turn the motor. It also pulls an axis rod to trigger an engaging fork which pushes the pinion to automatically engage with the flywheel.
Another option is to disable the ignition switch with an extension wire. This is a temporary option however it shouldn't be a recommendation unless you are able to perform it correctly. You'll need to be careful to connect your jumper wires the battery terminals, and then make sure that the switch is in the "Start position".
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is the place where you insert your car keys. This switch is used by the system to start the engine and to send an electrical current to the starter. However it isn't immune to wear and tear as other components of the car. The switch may also get stuck inside its slot or be locked. It is important to regularly check it for any issues so that you can act before the car doesn't start.
It is possible that your key was locked if your key is difficult to turn or gets stuck in the ignition. This issue occurs in many vehicles due to a lack of grease. Using a silicone or graphite-based oil on the release pin could help. Spray a bit of it into the ignition and then try moving the key. If it's stuck then try using a hacksaw or piler blade.
An ignition problem can lead to a number of other issues too. The anti-theft system may stop working, or the starter motor might not start when you plug in the key. It could also cause other functions to cease functioning or not work at all.
A failing ignition switch can also leave you with lots of wear and tear on other components. For example, if you have a heavy keychain, or several items on your keychain it could strain the ignition switch when you plug it in and can accelerate the wear on its internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the materials and lubricants in the ignition switch.
It's important to test the replacement ignition switch prior to reassembling other parts and the steering column. Be sure that the replacement ignition switch works and that the engine starts smoothly. It is also important to confirm that the new ignition switch is compatible with the vehicle's make and model. It might be worth it to have a dealership install the ignition switch for you if you are not confident about your ability to do so. They can also test the replacement and install any other components that need to be connected or replaced.
