Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Fix Car Ignition
How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't start until the ignition switch sends the electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time, normal wear and tear could cause the switch to fail.
You can remove the steering column trim with special tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Check the repair manual to get guidance on how to do this in a safe manner.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a defective switch. It regulates the time when relays are activated and deactivated, acting as bridge. It is less likely to fail because it does not channel the full power of devices like the starter. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone.
One indication of a defective switch is 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's also common for people to misplace their car keys with another's, which could lead to mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith you may try a few options. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no electrical issues in the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of each component to make sure they're supplying enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that holds everything together. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to push the pin into. You can employ anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but be careful of anything brittle as it could be broken into 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 removing the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then carefully take it off. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own, this will tell you exactly how to do this.
It is recommended to have the ignition switch replaced by an expert when it's not working. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch without disabling your steering column. This could lead to an accidental deployment of airbags if you do it incorrectly. It is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this.
2. Verify the Wire
If you are unable to turn the ignition key or your car won't start, the issue could be related to any of the components of your vehicle's ignition system. It is important to know how the ignition system works to identify issues and make the appropriate repairs.
The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It includes four positions "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is locked (which is typically indicated by an red light) the ignition circuit is in operation and it is inaccessible to start your vehicle.
To determine if the ignition switch is defective or the ignition coil is faulty, you'll need to do a quick electrical test using the help of a voltmeter. When the ignition switch is running and the voltmeter is reading around 12.6, If the voltage drops below that, it means there's an open circuit within the system. This could be a battery, solenoid or the ignition coil.
Disconnect auto locksmith ignition replacement from the ignition switch to ensure that no other components can interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and connect one lead onto one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter reads "open" or does not show any voltage, you should replace the switch.
Make sure you use a new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. When replacing the ignition switch, be cautious not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools, or they'll get stuck and the engine won't start. In some vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and the gear selector in order to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult, and it is not recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's manual that states it's safe. If you don't, it is possible to cause irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've sifted through the battery, wiring and ignition switch and still you can't get your car start, it might be time to examine the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock so a would-be thief can't control the car without keys.
You may observe that your key will not turn if the cylinder has worn out. Sometimes, the pins inside the cylinder become stuck when they adjust to the shape of your key, which can cause your car to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be shaky and a tap using the tack hammer may help to free it. Be sure not to mix up the springs and ensure that your key is properly inserted.
Another sign that your cylinder is going bad is if you have to turn the key and test it in various positions before it gets started. This is a sign of trouble, and it must be addressed immediately as it will only worsen over time.
To test the cylinder, you will need to remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. You'll then be able to pull out the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own an extra switch, you might be able take the original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness and secure it and reattach any covers, or panels you've removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is your ignition system's final link. When it breaks, the engine can't run. It could be that your car will not start at all or it will run poorly. In either case, the reason is likely to be one of a few factors that block or hinder electricity from crossing the spark plug gap, which causes your engine's air and fuel mixture to run.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure you're working on a safe surface and using protective gloves and tools to avoid being struck. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injuries if you touch them with your naked skin.
When a spark plug goes bad, you may observe that the edge of the central electrode is covered with a light gray or brown residue on it. The electrode could also be covered with an opaque coating. These deposits, or fouling, may prevent high-voltage electricity from crossing the gap between the spark plug and sparking your engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs may be at fault You can test them by taking them from their tube in the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the appropriate procedure for your vehicle to remove any components that are covering the spark plugs. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and turn the engine. If they are working you should be able to see a strong blue spark near the tip of central electrode.
If you do not see a spark you have found the issue. The next step is to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each part until the spark plugs aren't functioning. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break down over time and this is particularly the case with ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and avoid a major headache at the worst possible time.