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.

Using specialized tools, you can remove the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right.

1. Make sure to check the Switch

One of the most frequent ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It functions as a bridge between two contacts, and controls when relays activate and deactivate. Because it doesn't channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter component that's less likely fail. The switch can still be damaged or corroded.

A bad switch can be recognized by a slow time turning the key. This could be due to various reasons such as incorrectly inserting a key or the mechanism being worn out over time. It's not uncommon to see people confuse their keys with keys from someone else's. This can cause mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith, you can try a few things. First, you'll need to make sure that the battery is charged and that there are no other electrical issues in the system. Also, you should verify the voltage of every component to make sure they're providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the lost ignition key cylinder, which is a round module that holds everything together. It's necessary to use an elongated flathead as well as something long enough for you to press the pin in. You can use anything from a paintbrush, to a kabob stick, but avoid anything that is hard as it could cause damage to the hole.

Remove any trim pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you are ready to work. Once you've done this, loosen and remove any screws that keep the switch in place, and then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you might also have to unplug any wires connected to it. You can learn how to do it in the manual of your vehicle.

It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by professionals in the event that it isn't working. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch without removing the steering column. This could result in an unintentional airbag being deployed when you don't do it correctly. It is recommended to allow your locksmith to take care of this.

2. Check the Wire

If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, your problem could be related to any number of components in your car Key ignition problems's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions will help you determine the cause of the problem and make the correct repairs.

The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It includes four positions "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is in operation 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 read around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the run position. If the voltage is lower than that, there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery 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 is "open" or does not detect any voltage, you must replace the switch.

Make sure you use a new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle is running and starts correctly. When replacing the ignition switch, be careful not to hit the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools or they'll become stuck and your engine won't be able to start. You'll need to remove the steering wheel and gear selector on some vehicles to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and shouldn't be done unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do so. If you do not you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch, but cannot get your car ignition switch to start, it could be time to examine the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the lock on the steering wheel so a would-be thief can't control the car without keys.

You may observe that your key will not turn if the cylinder is worn out. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder get stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder might also be loose. A tap with a small tackhammer will help. Be careful not to jumble the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is correctly installed prior to tapping.

If you need to move the key before it will start, this is another indication that your cylinder has been damaged. This is a sign of trouble and should be corrected immediately, as it can only get worse over time.

To examine the cylinder, you'll need to take off the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to take off, as will the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have an extra ignition switch lying around, it's that you could take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a locksmith to reuse them 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 then reattach any covers or panels you removed.

4. Check Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. The engine won't run in the event that the spark plug fails. This could take the form of your car not starting at all, or may start but not run well. In either case, it's likely that one of several things are hindering or preventing the flow of electricity across spark plug gaps, which ignites the mixture of fuel and air within your engine.

Be sure to wear protective tools and gloves before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be very hot and could cause serious injuries if they are touched by hands without gloves.

When a spark plug goes bad, you might observe that the edge of the central electrode is covered with some light brown or gray residue on it. The electrode could also be covered with an opaque coating. These deposits, also known as corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.

If you think that your spark plugs may be to blame You can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you'll have to follow the proper procedure for your car to remove the components that surround the plugs. After removing the plugs place them on a surface that is grounded. Then begin the engine. If they're functioning, you should see a bright blue spark near the point of the central electrode.

If you don't see any spark, you have found the problem. The next step is to work back through the ignition system chain, testing each element until you discover what's blocking the spark plugs from doing their job. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear down and break over time and this is particularly the case with ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can help to slow down the process and avoid a major headache at the worst time.