The Biggest Issue With Fix Car Ignition And How You Can Fix It
How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't begin to start until the ignition switch sends the electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time wear and tear could cause the switch to malfunction.
Using specialized tools, you can remove the steering column trim and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it correctly.
1. Check the Switch
A malfunctioning switch is one of the most frequently encountered ignition issues. It acts as bridge between two contacts, controlling the time when relays are activated and deactivated. Because it doesn't transmit the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter-duty component that is less likely to fail. The switch could still be damaged or damaged or corroded.
One sign of a bad switch is difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by many things such as not inserting the key correctly or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's also common for people to misplace their keys to their car with another's, which could result in mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't working, there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any electrical issues within the system. You should also test the voltage of each component to determine if it's supplying adequate power. Once you've done these steps, it's now time to start troubleshooting.
Luckily, the ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to push the pin into. This could be anything from an artist's brush to a kabob skewer, but you should avoid using anything brittle that could break within the hole.
Remove any trim pieces that are covering the area around the switch when you are ready to go. 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 may have to cut off any cables connected to it. Find out how to do this in the manual of your vehicle.
If the ignition switch isn't working it is recommended to replace it by a professional. The replacement process involves disabling the steering column which may trigger unintentional deployment of airbags if done in a wrong manner. van ignition repair to let your local locksmith handle this.
2. Check the Wire
Your car might not start if you are unable to turn the key or it will not start. This could be due to any number of components within the ignition system. It's crucial to understand how the ignition system works so that you can pinpoint 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". When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is active and it's impossible to start the engine.
You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch or coil. If the ignition switch is set to run, the voltmeter should show about 12.6, If the voltage drops below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit in the system. This could be a solenoid, battery or the ignition coil.
Disconnect the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Then you should set the voltmeter in the continuity or resistance mode and place one lead on one of the ignition switch terminals. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or fails to show any voltage, you should replace the switch.
Use a new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle runs and starts properly. 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 your engine will not start. You'll need to remove the steering wheel and the gear selector on some vehicles to gain access to the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult, and it is not recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's manual that says it's safe. If you don't then you could cause serious damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you have tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch, but still cannot start your car, it may be time to check the cylinder. It's the part that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the lock on the steering wheel to ensure that thieves can't steer the car without a key.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you may be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder are stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder could also be shaky and a tap using the tack hammer may help to free it. Be careful not to crush the springs inside and ensure that the key is correctly installed prior to tapping.
Another sign that your cylinder is in trouble is when you need to jiggle the key and test it in various positions before it gets started. This is a sign of trouble and must be fixed immediately because it will worsen over time.
To examine the cylinder you'll need to unplug your battery and remove the cover on your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be easy to take off, as will the cylinder made of steel. If you don't have a spare ignition switch lying around, it's likely that you could take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith and reuse them, as long as they are in good condition. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the panels and covers that you removed.
4. Check Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the ignition system's final link. The engine cannot start if the spark plug breaks. 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 the factors that block or hinder electricity from crossing the spark plug gap which causes your engine's air and fuel mixture to start.
Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you are working on a safe surface, employing protective gloves and tools to keep from getting struck. Spark plugs can get very hot and cause serious injuries if handled with hands that are not protected.
When a spark plug goes bad, you may notice that the tip of the electrode's central portion has a light gray or brown substance on it. It could also have a black coating on the sides of the electrode. These deposits, also known as fouling, can stop high-voltage electricity from crossing the spark plug gap and igniting your engine.
If you believe that your spark plugs are at fault, you can test them by removing 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 components that cover the spark plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded and begin the engine. If they're good you will be able to see a strong blue spark across the gap at the tip of the central electrode.
If you don't see any spark, you have found the issue. Next, you'll need to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each part until the spark plugs are no longer functioning. It's important to remember that all systems wear down and break down with time and this is particularly true of ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can help to slow down the process and avoid a major headache at the worst time.