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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't start until the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time normal wear and tear may cause the switch to fail.
Utilizing specially designed tools, you can take off the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for guidance on how to do this in a safe manner.
1. Make sure to check the Switch
A malfunctioning switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It regulates the moment relays are activated, and deactivated by acting as a bridge. Because it isn't able to channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that is less likely to fail. However it's still possible for the switch to become damaged or corroded.
One sign of a damaged switch is difficulty turning the key. This can be due to various reasons that include incorrectly inserting a key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not unusual to see people mix their keys up with keys from someone else's. This can cause mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't functioning there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no other electrical issues within the system. You should also examine the voltage of every component to determine if they're providing enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you can begin troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll require an flathead screwdriver as well as something long enough to push the pin into. It could be anything from an artist's brush to a kabob skewer, but it is best to avoid anything that is brittle and break inside the hole.
Remove any trimming pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you're ready to work. After removing the trim pieces, remove any screws that are holding the switch in place. Then, gently remove it. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own, this will tell you exactly how to do this.
It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by a professional when it's not working. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch, without disabling the steering column. auto ignition repair could result in an accidental airbag deployment when you don't do it correctly. Therefore, it is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this for you.
2. Check the Wire
If you can't turn the ignition key or your car won't start, your problem could be related to any number of components of your vehicle's ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions to be able to spot issues and make the necessary repairs.
The ignition switch is a low-voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is operated by a key. It has four positions that are off, accessory, run and "lock." If the switch is in the lock position (which usually has an indicator in red), the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start the engine.
To determine if the ignition switch is bad or if the ignition coil itself is faulty, you'll must conduct a quick electrical test using the help of a voltage meter. When the ignition switch is running at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read approximately 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that it indicates that there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or even the ignition coil itself.
Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch to ensure that there are no other components that could interfere with your test. Then, set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance mode and put one lead on one of the ignition switch terminals. The other lead should go to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltmeter is "open" or fails to register any voltage, you should replace the switch.
Make sure you use a new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and your engine won't be able to run. In some vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and shouldn't be done unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do this. If you do not then you could cause serious damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch and still you can't get your car start, it might be time to check the cylinder. The cylinder is the piece that holds the key. It is mechanically connected to the steering lock to ensure that burglars won't be able to drive the car if it's not there.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you might be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. The pins of the cylinder can get stuck as they adapt to your key's shape. This can cause your car to not start. The cylinder could also be loose, but a tap with a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Be careful not to crush the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is correctly inserted before tapping.
If you need to jiggle and move your key around before it will start, this is another indication that your cylinder is been damaged. This is a red flag and needs to be fixed immediately, as it can only get worse over time.
To examine the cylinder you'll need to disconnect your battery and remove the cover from your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. Then, you'll be able to remove the old ignition switch and the cylinder made of metal. If you don't have an additional ignition switch around, it's likely that you could take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith in order to reuse them, as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder ensure that you 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 last link. When it breaks it stops the engine from running. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or it may start but not run well. In either case, it is likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the air and fuel mixture inside your engine.
Be sure to wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be very hot and could cause serious injuries if they are handled with hands that are not protected.
You may notice a light gray or brown fleck on the tip of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. It could also have a black layer on the opposite side of the electrode. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electrical current from crossing the spark plug gap and igniting your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs could be the cause you can test them if you remove the plugs from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you will be required to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle in order to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded and begin the engine. If they are good you will see a strong blue spark crossing the gap in the middle of the central electrode.
If you don't detect a spark, you've discovered the problem. The next step is to go backwards through the chain of ignition and test each part until the spark plugs are no longer functioning. All systems will wear out and eventually break, and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can help reduce the wear and tear and avoid a major headache at the worst time.