14 Businesses Doing A Superb Job At Fix Car Ignition
How to Fix Car Ignition Problems
The car won't begin unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to fail.
Using special tools, you can remove the steering column trim and access the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right.
1. Make sure you check the Switch
A defective switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It controls the moment relays are activated, and deactivated through the use of a bridge. It is less likely to fail because it does not channel the full power of devices such as the starter. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corroded.
A defective switch is identified by a difficulty turning the key. This can be due to many factors, including the wrong way to insert a key, or wearing down the mechanism over time. It's not unusual for people to mix their keys up with those of others. This could cause mechanical damage.
If the switch isn't functioning, there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you'll need to ensure that the battery is fully charged and there are no other electrical issues that could be affecting the system. Also, you should check the voltage of every component to ensure they are sufficient power. Once you've done these steps, it's now time to begin troubleshooting.
Fortunately, the ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that holds everything together. You'll need to use a flathead and a piece of material long enough for you to insert the pin. This can be anything from a paintbrush handle to a Kabob skewer. However, it is best to avoid anything brittle that could break inside the hole.
When you're ready to do the work, you'll need to remove any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. After this, loosen and remove any screws that are holding the switch in place, and then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may also have to unplug any wires connected to it. Find out how to do this in the manual of your vehicle.
It is best to have the ignition switch replaced by an expert if it doesn't work. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without removing the steering column. This could lead to an accidental airbag being deployed when you don't do it correctly. It is best to leave it to your local locksmith to take care of this.
2. Check the Wiring
The car may not start if you are unable to turn the key or it isn't starting. This could be due a number of components within the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions will help you determine the cause of the problem and make the correct repairs.
The ignition switch is an electrical switch that has multiple poles and is operated by a key. It has four positions including off run, accessory, and "lock." If the switch is locked (which is usually shown by a red light) the ignition circuit is in operation and it is impossible to start your vehicle.
You can use a voltmeter to quickly test the ignition switch or ignition coil. The voltmeter should read around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage falls below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the ignition coil itself.
Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch so that there are no other components that could interfere with the test. Then you should set the voltmeter in 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 voltage meter shows "open" or doesn't register any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.
If you're changing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run properly. Also, when you replace the ignition switch, you must be cautious not to touch the ignition cylinder pins with your tools, or they'll become stuck and your engine won't be able to start. You'll need to remove the steering wheel and the gear selector in certain vehicles to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and is not recommended unless you have an owner's guideline that says it's safe to do so. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is likely.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you've worked your way through the wiring, battery and ignition switch but can't get your car to start, it might 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 so that a potential thief cannot steer the car without a key.
If your cylinder has started to wear out, you may notice that the key won't turn. The pins inside the cylinder may become stuck as they adjust to the shape of your key. Suggested Web page could cause your vehicle to not start. Or, the cylinder might be loose, but a tap with a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Be careful not to crush the springs inside and ensure that your key is properly inserted before tapping.
Another indication that your cylinder is going bad is if you have to move the key around and try multiple positions before it gets started. This is a sign of trouble and should be addressed immediately, since it will continue to get worse as time passes.
To test the cylinder, you must remove the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. The old ignition switch should be simple to remove, as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own an extra switch, you might be able to take the original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse so long as they're in good working order. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, ensure that you reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the panels and covers that were removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the final link in your ignition system chain. When it is damaged it will stop the engine from running. This could take the form of your car not running at all, or it may start but then run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the air and fuel mixture inside your engine.
Be sure to wear gloves and protective tools before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injuries when you touch them with your naked skin.
If a spark plug goes bad, you might be able to see that the top of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. The electrode could also have a dark layer. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of your spark plug and igniting an engine.
If you think 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 done by disconnection of the coil and the plug wire. Then, you'll be required to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle to remove the components that cover the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded, and begin the engine. If they are good, you should see a strong blue spark across the gap in the middle of the central electrode.
If you don't see any spark, you have found the issue. Next, you'll need to go backwards through the ignition chain and check each component until the spark plugs stop functioning. It's important to remember that all systems wear out and break down over time, and this is especially true of ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can slow the process down and avoid a big headache at the worst possible time.