The Most Advanced Guide To Fix Car Ignition
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 could cause the switch to malfunction.
You can remove the steering column trim with specially designed tools to gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right.
1. Check the Switch
A bad switch is one of the most frequent ignition problems. It functions as bridge between two contacts, regulating when relays activate and deactivate. It is more likely to fail since it does not channel full power of devices like the starter. However it's still possible for the switch to get damaged or corroded.
A bad switch is identified by a difficulty turning the key. This can be due to various reasons, including the wrong way to insert a key, or the mechanism being worn out over time. It is also common for people to mix up their car keys with the keys of someone else, which can cause mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't functioning, there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you must ensure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues with the system. It is also important to check the voltage of every component to ensure they are supplying enough power. After you've completed these steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. You'll need a flathead and something that is long enough to push the pin into. You can use anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but be careful of anything brittle as it could be broken into the hole.
If you're ready for the work, you'll need to take away any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After you've removed the trim pieces remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then, gently take it off. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. Find out how to do it in the manual of your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't working it is recommended to have it replaced by an expert. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch without disabling the steering column. This could lead to an unintentional airbag deployment if you do it incorrectly. It is best to leave it to your local locksmith to handle this.
2. Verify the Wire
The car may not start if you are unable to turn the key or if it will not start. This could be due to a number components in the ignition system. It is important to know how the ignition system functions to identify issues and make the necessary repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is operated by a key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by a red light) the ignition circuit is activated and it is impossible to start your car.
To determine whether the ignition switch is defective or if the ignition coil itself is defective, you will must conduct a quick electrical test using the help of a voltmeter. When ignition repair cost has been set to run and the voltmeter is reading around 12.6, If the voltage drops below that, it indicates there's an open circuit within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or at the ignition coil itself.
Disconnect the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity mode and put one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltage gauge reads "open" or does not register any voltage it's time to replace the switch.
If you're replacing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run correctly. When replacing the switch, ensure not to strike the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they'll become stuck and the engine will not run. In certain vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and the gear selector in order to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and shouldn't be done unless you have an owner's manual that states that it is safe to do so. If you don't you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch but you are still unable to get your car to start, it may be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the part that holds the key. It is mechanically attached to the steering lock to ensure that thieves can't drive the car without it.
If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you may notice that the key won't turn. Sometimes, the pins inside the cylinder are stuck as they adapt to the shape of the key, which may cause your car not to start. The cylinder might also be loose. A tap using the tackhammer can help. Just be careful not to crush the springs in the cylinder and ensure that the key is correctly installed prior to tapping.
Another sign that your cylinder is in trouble is if you have to turn the key and try multiple positions before it starts. This is a sign of trouble and should be corrected right away, since it will only get worse with time.
To examine the cylinder, you must remove the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. You should then be able pull out the old ignition switch and the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have an extra ignition switch lying around, it's possible to take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith and reuse them as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness and secure it and reattach any covers, or panels that you have removed.
4. Check Spark Plugs
The spark plug is your ignition system's last link. The engine won't start in the event that the spark plug fails. It could be that your car won't start at all or will run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one or more things are preventing or impeding the flow of electricity across spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the air and fuel mixture in your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you work on a level surface and using protective gloves and tools to prevent getting struck. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injuries when touched with your skin.
You might notice a light brown or gray residue on the edge of the electrode when a spark plug is bad. The electrode may also have a dark layer. The deposits or fouling may hinder high-voltage electrical currents from jumping across the gap of your spark plug and igniting an engine.
If you suspect your spark plugs may be the culprit, you could test them by remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil and the plug wire. Then, you will have to follow the proper procedure for your car to remove the components that cover the plugs. Once you have removed the plugs you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and crank the engine. If they're good you should see a strong blue spark across 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 work back through the ignition chain, testing each component until you can determine what is hindering the spark plugs from doing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually fail, and this is particularly relevant to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and avoid an issue at the worst time.