How to
Fix Car Ignition Problems
A car won't start unless the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time could result in the switch not functioning properly.
Using special tools, you can remove the steering column trim and access the ignition cylinder module. Check your
repair ignition lock cylinder manual for guidance on how to do this correctly.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
A malfunctioning switch is one of the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It acts as bridge between two contacts, and controls when relays activate and deactivate. It is more likely to fail since it does not channel full power from devices such as the starter. However, it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or damaged or corroded.
One sign of a bad switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This could be due to many things, including not inserting the key correctly or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's also commonplace for people to misplace their car keys with another's, which could cause mechanical damage.
Before contacting a locksmith, you might want to try a few things. You'll first want to ensure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any electrical issues in the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of each component to ensure that they are supplying enough power. Once you've done these steps, it's time to start troubleshooting.
Luckily, the ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. You'll need to use a flathead and something long enough to press the pin in. This can be anything from a paintbrush handle to a Kabob skewer. However, you should stay clear of anything brittle that could break inside the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that cover the area around the switch once you're ready to work. After that take off and loosen any screws that hold the switch in place then gently pull it out. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. You can find out how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
It is recommended to have the
ignition key replacement cost switch replaced by a professional when it's not working. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch without disabling the steering column. This could result in an unintentional airbag deployment if you do it incorrectly. It's best to leave it to your local locksmith to handle this.
2. Check the Wiring
If you're unable to turn the ignition key or your car won't start, your issue could be due to any number of components in your car's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works can help you spot problems and make the necessary repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is turned by the key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is locked (which is usually marked by the red light) the ignition circuit is activated and it is inaccessible to start your car.
To determine whether the ignition switch bad or the ignition coil is bad, you have to conduct an electrical test with the help of a Voltmeter. The voltmeter should read around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage drops below that, it means there's an open circuit somewhere in the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or even the ignition coil itself.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure that no other components can interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and place one lead on one of the ignition switch terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or fails to register any voltage, you should replace the switch.
Use a new ignition key and high-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure that your vehicle runs and starts properly. When you replace the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they will become stuck and the engine won't run. You'll need to remove the steering wheel and the gear selector in certain vehicles to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult, and it is not recommended until you have an owner's manual that states it's safe. Otherwise, serious damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch and still you can't get your
car ignition switch repair start, it may be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the component that holds the key. It is mechanically attached to the steering lock so that a would-be burglar can't drive the car if it's not there.
You might observe that your key will not rotate if the cylinder is worn out. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder get stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder may also be sloppy. Tapping it with the small tackhammer may aid. Just be careful not to crush the springs inside and ensure that your key is correctly inserted before tapping.
If you are required to move the key around before it will start, this is another indication that your cylinder has been damaged. This is a negative sign, and it must be fixed immediately as it will only worsen over time.
To examine the cylinder, you'll need to take off the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. Then, you'll be able to pull out the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder made of metal. If you don't have a spare switch, you might be able to take your original ignition cylinder and switch to a locksmith for reuse as long they're in good shape. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the covers and panels were removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the final link in your ignition system chain. When it is damaged, the engine can't run. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but then run poorly. In either case, the reason is likely to be one of the things that hinder or prevent electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap, which ignites your engine's air and fuel mixture.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you work on a safe surface and using protective gloves and tools to keep from being hit with. Spark plugs can get very hot and could cause serious injuries if touched with bare hands.
You may notice a light gray or brown residue on the edge of the electrode when the spark plug is damaged. The electrode could also have a dark coating. These deposits or fouling can hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs may be the culprit You can test them by having them remove them 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 you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a surface that is grounded and then crank the engine. If they're working, you should see a strong blue spark crossing the gap in the middle of the central electrode.
If you don't see a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go through the ignition chain, testing each part until you discover what's stopping the spark plugs from doing their job. All systems will wear out and eventually fail, and this is particularly true for
ignition cylinder lock repair systems. But, regular maintenance can help slow the process down and avoid a big headache at the worst possible time.
