How To Solve Issues With Fix Car Ignition How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car will not start unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear can 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

One of the most frequent ignition problems is a bad switch. It regulates the moment relays are activated, and deactivated, acting as a bridge. It is less likely to fail because it doesn't channel full power from devices such as the starter. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corroded.

One sign of a bad switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This can be caused by many factors that include not inserting the correct key correctly or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon to see people mix their keys up with someone else's. This could cause mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith, you might want to try a few things. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. You should also check the voltage of each component to determine if they're capable of supplying enough power. Once you've completed these steps, you can begin troubleshooting.

Fortunately the ignition switch is pretty simple 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 long enough to press the pin into. auto ignition key replacement could be anything from paintbrush handles to kabob skewer, but it is best to avoid anything brittle that could break inside the hole.

Remove any trim pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you're ready to work. Once you've done this, loosen and remove any screws that keep the switch in place and then gently pull it out. Depending on the model, you may have to cut off any cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own and model, it will show you exactly how to do it.

It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by professionals in the event that it isn't working. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without disabling the steering column. This could result in an unintentional airbag deployment in the event that you don't do it correctly. Therefore, it's best to have your local locksmith handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

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

The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is turned by the key. It has four positions, including "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". When the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by a red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start your vehicle.

You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch and ignition coil. When the ignition switch is set to run, the voltmeter should show around 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that then there is an open circuit within the system. This could be a solenoid, the battery, or the ignition coil.

Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure no other components can interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance 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 voltmeter is "open" or does not detect any voltage, you must replace the switch.

If you're replacing the switch, be certain to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your car will run and start correctly. When replacing the switch, ensure not to touch the pins of the cylinder's ignition with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and the engine will not run. You'll have to take off the steering wheel and gear selector in certain vehicles to get access to the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and isn't recommended until you have an owner's guideline that states it's safe. If you don't then you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've worked your way through the battery, wiring and ignition switch, but you can't get your car start, it may be time to check the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is connected to the lock on the steering wheel so that a potential thief cannot steer the car without keys.

If your cylinder has started to wear out, you could be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder get stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which can cause your car to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be loose, but a tap with the tack hammer may aid in releasing it. Be sure not to mix up the springs and ensure that the key is properly inserted.

If you are required to move the key around before it will start, this is another indication that your cylinder has been damaged. This is a sign of trouble and must be addressed immediately, since it will only get worse over time.

To examine the cylinder you'll need to unplug your battery and take off the cover from your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. You should then be able pull out the old ignition switch as well as the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't own an extra switch, you might be able to bring your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to a locksmith for reuse as long they're in good shape. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder make sure to reconnect the wiring and secure it before reattaching all covers and panels that were removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition chain. The engine cannot run in the event that the spark plug fails. It could be that your vehicle won't start at all, or it will run poorly. In either case, the reason is likely to be one of the factors that block or hinder electricity from crossing the spark plug gap, which allows your engine's gas and fuel mixture to start.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure that you work on a safe surface, employing protective gloves and tools to prevent being zapped. Spark plugs can be extremely hot and could 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 if a spark plug is bad. It could also have a black layer on the sides of the electrode. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could prevent high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of your spark plug and igniting an engine.


If you suspect that your spark plugs may be the cause You can test them if you remove them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. Then, you'll 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 you can place them on a grounded metal surface and crank the engine. If they're working, you should see a strong blue spark across the gap between the tip of the central electrode.

If you don't detect a spark, you've discovered the problem. The next step is to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each component until the spark plugs are no longer working. All systems wear out and eventually fail This is especially applicable to ignition systems. However, regular maintenance can to slow down the process and avoid a major headache at the worst time.