10 Fix Car Ignition Meetups You Should Attend How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't start unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear could cause the switch to malfunction.

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

1. Make sure you check the Switch

One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a defective switch. It controls when relays are activated and deactivated through the use of bridge. Since it doesn't harness the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter component that's less likely fail. However it's still possible for the switch to become damaged or corroded.

One indication of a defective switch is a difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by many factors that include the wrong way to insert a key, or the mechanism being worn out over time. It is also common for people to mistake their car keys with another's, which could cause mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are a few things you could try before calling a locksmith. First, ensure that the battery is charged and that there aren't any other electrical issues in the system. It is also important to test the voltage of each component to determine if it's providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.

Fortunately the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver and something that is long enough to push the pin into. It could be anything from a paintbrush handle to a Kabob skewer, but you should avoid using anything that is brittle and break inside the hole.

Once you're ready to complete the work, you'll have to remove any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After this, loosen and remove any screws that hold the switch in place then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model you may have to cut off the cables that connect to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do it.

If the ignition switch isn't functioning it's recommended to have it replaced by a professional. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without removing the steering column. This could lead to an accidental airbag being deployed in the event that you don't do it correctly. This is why it is recommended to let your locksmith take care of this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

If you are unable to turn the ignition key or your car won't start, your issue could be related to any of the components of your vehicle's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions will help you identify problems and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is an electric switch that has multiple poles and is controlled by the 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 live and it's not possible to start the engine.

You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch or coil. The voltmeter should read approximately 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the run position. If car ignition locked drops below that, it indicates there's an open circuit in the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or the ignition coil itself.

Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch so that no other components interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter in the resistance or continuity modes and then place one lead onto one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should go to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage meter shows "open" or doesn't show any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.

When changing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. Also, when you replace the ignition switch, be careful not to strike the ignition cylinder pins with your tools, or they'll get stuck and your engine won't be able to start. In certain vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy, and it is not recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's manual that says it's safe. If you do not then you could cause severe damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you have tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch, but still can't get your car to start, it may be time to check the cylinder. It's the part that holds your key, and is mechanically connected to the lock on the steering wheel to ensure that thieves can't control the car without the key.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you might find that the key doesn't turn. The pins inside the cylinder could become stuck as they adjust to your key's shape. This can cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder might also be sloppy. Tapping it with the tackhammer can aid. Be careful not mixing the springs, and ensure that your key is properly installed.

Another indication that your cylinder is failing is when you have to jiggle the key and try different positions before it starts. This is a bad sign and must be fixed immediately as it will only get worse with time.

To check the cylinder you'll need to take off the cover on the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as should the cylinder for ignition 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're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach all covers and panels that you removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is your ignition system's last link. The engine cannot start if the spark plug breaks. This could take the form of your car not starting at all, or it could start but not run well. In any case, the root 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.


Make sure you wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when you touch them with your naked skin.

If a spark plug goes bad, you may observe that the edge of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. It could also have a black layer on the sides of the electrode. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine.

If you think that your spark plugs could be at fault You can test them by taking them from their tube in 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. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and turn the engine. If they're functioning you should see an intense blue spark at the point of the central electrode.

If you do not see a spark, you've discovered the problem. The next step is to go back through the ignition chain, testing each part until you find out what's blocking the spark plugs from performing their job. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break over time, and this is especially the case with ignition systems. Regular maintenance can slow down the process and avoid major problems in the worst case.