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 wear and tear could cause the switch to malfunction.

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

1. Make sure you check the Switch

A bad switch is among the most common ignition issues. It acts as an intermediary between two contacts, regulating the time when relays are activated and deactivated. Because it doesn’t transmit 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 get damaged or corroded.

A defective switch can be identified by a difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by various factors such as improperly inserting the key, or wearing out the mechanism over time. It is also common for people to mix up their keys to their car with those of another’s, which could cause mechanical damage.

If the switch isn’t functioning there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you’ll need to ensure that the battery is fully charged and there are no other electrical issues in the system. You should also examine the voltage of each component to ensure that they are providing enough power. Once you’ve done these steps, it’s now time to begin troubleshooting.

The ignition switch is easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round component that holds everything together. It’s necessary to use a flathead and a piece of material long enough for you to insert the pin. You can use anything from a paintbrush to a kabob stick, but avoid anything brittle as it could be broken into the hole.

Remove any trim pieces that cover the area around the switch when you are ready to work. After removing the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then carefully take it off. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect any cables that connect to it. You can learn how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.

It’s best to get the lost ignition key switch replaced by professionals if it doesn’t work. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch without removing the steering column. This could lead to an unintentional deployment of airbags if you do it incorrectly. It is best to let your local locksmith take care of this.

2. Check the Wire

If you are unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car won’t start, the issue could be due to any number of parts of your car’s ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you identify problems and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by the key. It has four positions: off, accessory, run and “lock.” When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has the red indicator), the fix ignition switch 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 approximately 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage drops below that, it indicates there’s an open circuit in the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the mobile ignition lock repair services coil itself.

Disconnect the electrical connector so that it doesn’t interfere with the test. Then you should set the voltmeter in 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 of the battery. If the voltage gauge shows “open” or doesn’t register any voltage then it’s time to replace the switch.

Use a new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When you replace the switch, be 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. You’ll have to take off the steering wheel and gear selector in some vehicles to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and should not be done unless you have an owner’s manual that states it’s safe to do this. If you do not, it is possible to cause serious damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you have tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition lock repair switch but still can’t get your car started It could be time to examine the cylinder. It’s the part that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock to ensure that thieves can’t drive the car without a key.

You may be noticing that your key does not turn if the cylinder has worn out. The pins inside the cylinder can get stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key. This can cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder might also be loose. A tap using a small tackhammer will aid. Be careful not to disturb the springs within and make sure that your key is correctly inserted before tapping.

Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is when you have to move the key around and try different positions before it starts. This is a negative sign, and it must be addressed immediately as it will only get worse with time.

To test the cylinder, you will need to remove the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. Then, you’ll be able to pull out the old ignition switch and the cylinder made of metal. If you don’t own an extra switch, you might be able take your original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse as long they’re in good shape. After replacing the switch and cylinder, make sure you connect the wiring harness and secure it and then reattach any covers or panels that you have removed.

4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition lock repair near me chain. If it fails it will stop the engine from running. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or it could start but run poorly. In either case, the reason is likely to be one of the factors that block or hinder electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap which ignites your engine’s air and fuel mixture to start.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure you’re working on a level surface and using protective gloves and tools to avoid getting struck. Spark plugs can be very hot and can cause serious injuries if they are touched by hands without gloves.

You may notice a light gray or brown residue on the top of the electrode when a spark plug is bad. It could also have a black layer on the opposite side of the electrode. These deposits or fouling can hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap between your spark plug and igniting an engine.

If you believe that your spark plugs may be to blame You can test them by removing them from their tube in the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the proper procedure for your car to remove the components that cover the spark plugs. Once you have removed the plugs you can place them on a grounded metal surface and crank the engine. If they’re working you will see a strong blue spark crossing the gap at the tip of the central electrode.

If you don’t see any spark, you have found the problem. The next step is to go back through the ignition system chain, testing each component until you discover what’s hindering the spark plugs from performing their job. All systems will wear out and eventually fail and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and prevent a major problem at the worst moment.