20 Questions You Should Ask About Fix Car Ignition Before You Purchase Fix Car Ignition How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't begin to start until the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to fail.

You can remove the steering column trim using specialized tools to access the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for guidance on how to do this in a safe manner.

1. Check the Switch

A defective switch is one of the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It controls the time when relays are activated and deactivated by acting as bridge. Because it doesn't channel the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter component that's less likely to fail. However, it's still possible for the switch to become damaged or corroded.

A defective switch is identified by a difficulty turning the key. This could be due to various factors that include not inserting the key correctly or wearing out the mechanism over time. It is also common for people to mix up their car keys with someone else's, which can lead to mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are a few things you could try before calling a locksmith. You'll first want to ensure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any electrical issues with the system. Also, you should test the voltage of each component to determine if it's supplying adequate power. After you've completed these steps, it's time to start troubleshooting.

Fortunately the ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll need an flathead screwdriver as well as something that is long enough to push the pin inside. You can make use of anything from a paintbrush to kabob stick, but avoid anything brittle as it could cause damage to the hole.

If you're ready for the job, you'll need to remove any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After taking off the trim pieces, remove any screws that are holding the switch in position. Then carefully remove it. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. Find out how to do this in the manual of your vehicle.

It's best to get the ignition switch replaced by professionals when it's not working. It is possible to replace it by disabling the steering column which may trigger unintentional airbag deployment if done incorrectly. For this reason, it is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

The car may not start if it is difficult to turn the key or it isn't starting. This could be due to any number of components within the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you identify problems and make the correct repairs.

The ignition switch is an electrical switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It has four positions: off run, accessory, and "lock." When the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by the red light) the ignition circuit is activated and it is impossible to start your car.

To determine whether the ignition switch is bad or if the ignition coil itself is bad, you need to do a quick electrical test using an voltage meter. If the ignition switch is set to run and the voltmeter is reading approximately 12.6, If the voltage drops below that, it indicates there's an open circuit within the system. It could be the battery, solenoid or the ignition coil.

Connect car ignition replacement to ensure that it does not interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance modes and place one lead on one of the terminals of the ignition switch. The other leads should go to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage meter shows "open" or does not register any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.

When replacing the switch, be sure to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. When replacing the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. In the event of a collision, they'll become stuck and the engine will not run. In certain vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and the gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy, and it is not recommended until you have an owner’s manual that says it's safe. If you do not, it is possible to cause severe damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch and still cannot get your car to start, it could be time to check 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 control the car without the key.

You may notice that your key will not rotate if the cylinder is worn out. The pins in the cylinder may become stuck when they adapt to the shape of your key. This could cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder could also be shaky, but a tap with the small hammer from a tack can assist in releasing it. Be sure not to mix up the springs and ensure that the key is properly installed.

If you need to jiggle and move your key around before it will begin, it is a indication that your cylinder is gone bad. This is a sign of trouble and should be corrected immediately, as it can only get worse with time.

To examine the cylinder you'll need to unplug your battery and remove the cover from your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. You should then be able to pull out the old ignition switch and the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have a spare switch, you might be able to bring your original ignition cylinder and switch to a locksmith for reuse as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you connect the wiring to secure it, then reattach all covers and panels that were removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is your ignition system's final link. If it fails, the engine can't run. It can be that your car won't start at all, or it will run badly. In either case, the cause is likely to be one of the factors that block or hinder the flow of electricity across the spark plug gap, which allows your engine's gas and fuel mixture to run.

Be sure to use protective tools and gloves before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can get very hot and cause serious injuries if touched with bare hands.


When a spark plug goes bad, you might be able to see that the top of the central electrode is covered with a slight brown or gray substance on it. It may also have a black layer on the sides of the electrode. The deposits or fouling may hinder high-voltage electrical currents from jumping across the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.

If you suspect your spark plugs may be the culprit, you can test them if you remove the plugs from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the appropriate procedure for your car to remove any components that are covering the spark plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a metal surface that is grounded, and start the engine. If they're good you will be able to see a strong blue spark extending across the gap in the middle of the central electrode.

If you don't see a spark, you have found the problem. The next step is to work back through the ignition chain, testing each element until you can determine what is hindering the spark plugs from doing their job. All systems get older and eventually break and this is especially relevant to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and prevent a major headache at the worst possible time.