The Worst Advice We've Ever Been Given About Fix Car Ignition How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

The car won't begin unless the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time may result in the switch not functioning properly.

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 correctly.

1. Check the Switch

One of the most common ignition problems is a bad switch. It controls the moment relays are activated, and deactivated through the use of bridge. Because it doesn't channel the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that is less likely to fail. It is still susceptible to being damaged or damaged or corroded.

One sign of a bad switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This can be caused by a number of factors such as the wrong way to insert a key, or wearing down the mechanism over time. It's not unusual for people to mix keys with someone else's. This can cause mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith you may try a few options. First, you'll need to make sure that the battery is fully 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 the above steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.

Fortunately, the ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require an flathead screwdriver as well as something long enough to press the pin into. This could be anything from a paintbrush handle to a Kabob skewer, but you should stay clear of anything brittle that could break inside the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that cover the area around the switch once you're ready to get started. Once you've done this remove and loosen the screws that keep the switch in place then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you might be required to disconnect the wires that connect to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle and model, it will show you exactly how to do this.


If the ignition switch isn't functioning, it's best to replace it by an expert. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without disabling the steering column. This could lead to an accidental airbag being deployed if you do it incorrectly. For this reason, it's often best to have your local locksmith handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

If you're unable to turn the ignition key or your car isn't starting, your problem could be related to any of the components in your car's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions can help you spot problems and make the necessary repairs.

The ignition switch is an electric switch that has multiple poles and is operated by a key. It has four positions including off, accessory, run and "lock." When the switch is locked (which is usually marked by a red light) the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start your vehicle.

To determine if the ignition switch is defective or if the ignition coil is bad, you must conduct a quick electrical test using an voltmeter. When the ignition switch has been running at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read about 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that, there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at 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 connect 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 gauge shows "open" or does not register any voltage then it's time to replace the switch.

Use a brand new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the switch, be sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they'll get stuck and your engine won't be able to run. You'll need to remove the steering wheel and gear selector in some vehicles to get access to the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy, and it is not recommended until you have an owner’s guideline that states it's safe. 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've gone through the wiring, battery and ignition switch, but you can't get your car start, it could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the part that holds the key. It is mechanically linked to the steering lock so that burglars won't be able to drive the car without it.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you might be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. The pins in the cylinder may become stuck as they adjust to your key's shape. This can cause your car to not start. The cylinder could also be loose. A tap using the tackhammer can help. Be careful not mixing with the springs and ensure that the key is correctly placed.

Another indication that your cylinder is failing is when you need to turn the key and try different positions before it gets started. This is a bad sign, and it must be addressed immediately because it will get worse over time.

To test the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover around 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 cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have an extra switch, you may be able 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 connect the wiring, secure it and reattach all covers and panels that you removed.

4. Check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the ignition system's last link. The engine cannot start when the spark plug is broken. This can 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 several factors that block or hinder electricity from crossing the spark plug gap which causes your engine's air and fuel mixture to start.

Be sure to wear protective tools and gloves before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when touched with your skin.

You might notice a light gray or brown residue on the tip of the electrode when the spark plug is damaged. The electrode could also be covered with a dark coating. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from crossing the gap between the spark plug and igniting your engine.

If you suspect that your spark plugs could be to blame you can test them by removing the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. Then, you will have to follow the proper procedure for your vehicle in order to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After removing the plugs place them on a metal surface that is grounded, and begin the engine. If they are good you should see a strong blue spark crossing the gap in the middle of the central electrode.

If www.g28carkeys.co.uk don't detect a spark, you've found the issue. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the ignition chain and check each component until the spark plugs aren't functioning. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear down and break over time, and this is especially true of ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and prevent major problems at the worst time.