How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't begin to start until the ignition switch is sending an electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time can cause the switch malfunction.

You can remove the steering column trim using specialized tools to gain access to your ignition cylinder module. Consult your repair ignition lock cylinder manual to learn how to do it correctly.

1. Make sure to check the Switch

One of the most frequent ignition issues is a defective switch. It controls the moment relays are activated, and deactivated, acting as a bridge. Because it doesn't transmit the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that's less likely fail. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.

One sign of a damaged switch is difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by many things, including incorrectly inserting the key or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's not common to see people mix keys with those of others. This could cause mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't working, there are a few things you could try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll want to make sure the battery is charged and that there are no other electrical issues within the system. Also, you should check the voltage of every component to ensure they are supplying enough power. After you've completed the above 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 to use an elongated flathead as well as something long enough for you to press the pin in. 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.

Once you're ready to complete the work, you'll need to take off any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After you've removed the trim pieces remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then, gently remove it. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. Find out how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.

If the ignition switch isn't working it's recommended to have it replaced by professionals. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without removing the steering column. This could result in an unintentional deployment of airbags if you do it incorrectly. It is recommended to let your local locksmith take care of this.

2. Verify the Wire

If you can't turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, your issue could be related to any of the parts of your car'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 electrical switch that has multiple poles and is operated by the key. It has four positions: off, accessory, run and "lock." If the switch is locked (which is typically marked by the red light), the ignition circuit is in operation and it is impossible to start your car.

To determine if the ignition switch is damaged or if the ignition coil is defective, you will 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 level, it's a sign there's an open circuit in the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil itself.

Disconnect the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance modes and place one lead onto one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage meter reads "open" or does not register any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.

When you're changing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run properly. When you replace the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. In the event of a collision, they'll get stuck and the engine will not run. In some vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and gear selector in order to access the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and is not recommended unless you have an owner's guideline that says it's safe to do so. Otherwise serious damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is likely.

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 inspect the cylinder. The cylinder is the component that holds the key and is mechanically linked to the steering lock so that burglars won't be able to drive the car without it.

You might observe that your key will not turn if the cylinder is worn out. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder become stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which could cause your car to not start. Or, the cylinder might be shaky however a tap using the small hammer from a tack can help to free it. Be careful not to mix the springs, and ensure that the key is correctly placed.

If you are required to jiggle and move the key before it can start, this is another sign that your cylinder has been damaged. This is a bad sign and must be fixed immediately because it will get worse over time.

To check the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover around your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. You should then be able to remove the old ignition switch and the cylinder made of metal. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able to take your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to locksmiths for reuse as long they're in good shape. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring, secure it and reattach the covers and panels were removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the last link in your ignition system chain. The engine won't run when the spark plug is broken. It can be that your car will not start at all or it will run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one of several factors are hindering or blocking 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 you're working on a safe surface, using protective gloves and tools to avoid getting struck. Spark plugs can be very hot and could cause serious injuries if handled with hands that are not protected.

When a spark plug is bad, you might be able to see that the top of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. The electrode may also have a dark layer. These deposits or fouling can prevent high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap between your spark plug and igniting an engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs could be the cause You can test them by having them remove them from the tube that is inside the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the correct 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 grounded metal surface and turn the engine. If they're good, you should see a strong blue spark crossing the gap at the tip of the central electrode.

If you don't see a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go back through the ignition chain, testing each component until you find out what's blocking the spark plugs from performing their job. It's important to remember that all systems wear down and break down over time, and this is especially the case with ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to slow down the process and prevent major problems at the worst possible time.