10 Fix Car Ignition-Related Meetups You Should Attend
How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't start until the ignition switch is sending an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to malfunction.
You can remove the steering column trim using specialized tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it right.
1. Check the Switch
One of the most frequently encountered ignition problems is a bad switch. It regulates the time when relays are activated and deactivated by acting as a bridge. Because it doesn't channel the full power of devices such as 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 due to various reasons, including the wrong way to insert a key, or the mechanism being worn out over time. It is also common for people to misplace their keys to their car with those of someone else's, which can result in mechanical damage.
Before calling a locksmith you may try a few options. First, you'll want to make sure that the battery is fully charged and there are no other electrical issues in the system. Also, you should examine the voltage of every component to determine if it's providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, it's time to begin troubleshooting.
The ignition switch is easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of metal that connects everything. You'll need a flathead and a piece of material that is long enough to push the pin into. You can use anything from a paintbrush to kabob stick, but avoid anything that is brittle, as it can break into the hole.
Once you're ready to complete the work, you'll have to take away any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After this, loosen and remove any screws that keep the switch in place and then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. You can learn how to do it in the instruction manual for your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't functioning it's recommended to have it replaced by an expert. The replacement process involves turning off the steering column, which could trigger an unintentional deployment of airbags if done in a wrong manner. For this reason, it is recommended to let your local locksmith handle this for you.
2. Check the Wiring
Your car may not start if you are unable to turn the ignition key or it won't start. car ignition replacement could be due a variety of components in the ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions to be able to spot problems and make the right 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 in the lock position (which usually has the red indicator) the ignition circuit is active and it's impossible to start the engine.
To determine whether the ignition switch is bad or the ignition coil is defective, you will must conduct a quick electrical test using the help of a voltage meter. When the ignition switch is set to run, the voltmeter should show about 12.6, If the voltage is below that then there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the ignition coil itself.
Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure there are no other components that could interfere with the test. Then, set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity 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 shows "open" or does not show any voltage, you must replace the switch.
If you're replacing the switch, be sure to use a brand new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. When replacing the switch, make sure not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. Otherwise, they will become stuck and the engine won't run. In certain vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and is not recommended unless you have an owner's manual that states that it is safe to do so. 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 sifted through the battery, wiring and ignition switch but can't get your car to start, it may be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the piece which holds the key and is mechanically connected to the steering lock so that a would-be burglar can't drive the car if it's not there.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you could find that the key doesn't turn. The pins in the cylinder may become stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key. This could cause your vehicle to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be shaky however a tap using a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Just be careful not to jumble the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is properly inserted before tapping.
Another indication that your cylinder is in trouble is if you have to move the key around and test it in various positions before it gets started. This is a sign of trouble and must be addressed immediately, since it will only get worse with time.
To test the cylinder, you will need to remove the steering wheel cover and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to take off, as will the cylinder made of steel. If you don't have an extra ignition switch lying around, it's likely that you could take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a locksmith to reuse them, as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder, make sure you connect the wiring harness, secure it in place and then reattach any covers or panels that you have removed.
4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the last link in your ignition system chain. The engine cannot run in the event that the spark plug fails. It can be that your vehicle won't start at all or will run poorly. In either case, it is likely that one or more factors are hindering or blocking electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which ignites the air and fuel mixture within your engine.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure you're working on a level surface and using protective gloves and tools to prevent being zapped. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injuries if you touch them with bare skin.
You may notice a light brown or gray residue on the tip of the electrode when the spark plug is damaged. The electrode may also have a dark layer. These deposits or fouling can stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap between your spark plug and igniting an engine.
If you believe that your spark plugs are to blame, you can test them by removing them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. Then, you will be required to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded. Then start the engine. If they are good, you should be able to see a strong blue spark extending across the gap at the tip of the central electrode.
If you don't detect a spark, you've discovered the problem. The next step is to go back through the ignition system chain, testing each element until you can determine what is stopping the spark plugs from performing their job. Every system will wear out and eventually break, and this is particularly true for ignition systems. However, regular maintenance can slow the process down and avoid a major headache at the worst time.