How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
If your car is running and starts, but the ignition switch doesn't turn on the spark plugs, there may be a variety of reasons for this. Some are simple and cheap to fix, whereas others require specialized equipment and the assistance of a mechanic.
Lubricate the key socket first. You can use graphite powder or silicon aerosol spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder has no loose springs or obstructions.
Battery
It could be that your battery is dead if your car won't start. This is a common problem that can be resolved by charging the battery or making the jump. If this doesn't fix the problem, your ignition switch may be defective. This component carries battery power to other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is not working properly, it will not allow current to flow through, and the engine will not start.
The battery is the source of all the electrical energy you use in your car. The battery is a black box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals at the top. The terminals may be corroded and stop the battery from providing electricity to the rest of the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery you can use a wire bristle to get rid of any corrosion. You can also use baking soda to help clean the terminals.
It is also possible that your car's battery has just reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced. A new battery will supply the correct voltage to your vehicle’s spark plugs. This is essential for a properly functioning engine.
The ignition coil converts low voltage from your battery into high voltage to spark the spark plugs inside your car and then start the engine. If the ignition coil is damaged, it will not be able to spark the plugs. Your engine won't start. You can test the ignition coil by looking whether there is a spark in the engine or turning the key and observing if the engine turns over.
You might also have to replace the starter motor. If you hear a grating sound when you turn the key in your ignition, it means that the bearings inside the starter are beginning to wear out. It is a costly repair, so it is recommended to replace your starter motor when you begin to begin to notice signs of wear. The starter motor can be changed by replacing a few bolts and parts.
ignition lock cylinder replacement is an appliance that recharges your battery while your engine is running. It also is the power source for your car's electrical components. Examine the battery first if you suspect that your alternator is failing. This will enable you to determine if your alternator is draining the battery, or if your battery is old and in need of replacement.
While the vehicle is in idle, the alternator provides power to the dash lights and radio. It also powers the windshield wipers as well as the power windows, electric steering, the heated seats and the power windows. You can use a voltmeter check your battery and the alternator for the proper voltage levels. If your battery is less than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged right away. A dead or low-volt battery can also stop the starter motor from cranking the engine, and will require more jumper cables to start your car.
Before you begin to dismantle the alternator, switch off the ignition and lock all doors. It is also important to disconnect the negative cable from the battery, tuck it away in a safe location and put on the safety gear. Refer to a vehicle specific repair manual for instructions on how to gain access to the alternator and any other parts you need to remove.
After you've removed your belt, if your car is equipped with one remove the warning light wire from the back of the alternator. This wire will usually connect directly to the alternator's terminal that's marked WL or IND. Some vehicles, however have a separate relay for this function. If the warning light doesn't blink, you may be able to identify a different issue.
The alternator is a vital part of your vehicle, and you must check it frequently to look for signs of problems. While you can perform some of the checks on your own, it's recommended to bring your vehicle into Les Schwab for a no-cost inspection and expert advice. Our technicians can test for corrosion on your battery posts, battery (+ and +) fuse, relays, and fuses and voltage output, cold starting amps, and many more.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential element of the ignition system. It turns the engine over to allow air to be sucked in, which is needed to ignite the fuel. When your car won't start it is often due to a problem with the starter motor. Fortunately, there are several methods of troubleshooting that can assist you in identifying and fixing the issue.
When you turn on your car's ignition key, a switch within the starter engages a pinion-gear that fits into grooves in the flywheel. The pinion gear then turns the flywheel, which begins the engine. When you release the key the pinion gear retracts and disengages from the flywheel to avoid damage.
There are many things that can go wrong with the starter motor for example, an electrical issue in the internal windings, a mechanical issue (such as teeth no longer meshing with the flywheel or pinion gear) or a dead battery. Often, a faulty starter motor will sound like a dead battery; it'll make a click as it tries to turn over the engine, but won't.
If the starter motor isn't functioning One of the first things a mechanic should check is the state of charge on the battery and its terminals. If the battery is corroded or is depleted it must be charged or replaced.
Depending on the extent of the problem, the mechanic could test the solenoid on the starter using a multimeter. The solenoid is a massive magnet switch, transmits an energy surge from the thick batteries cables to the starter. This switch basically connects the thick battery cable to the wires inside the starter, which make the electric motor turn, plus it pushes a rod that actuates an engaging fork that is then pushed by the pinion gear to automatically engage with the flywheel.
A jumper wire can be used to disable the ignition. This is only a temporary solution but it shouldn't be recommended unless you know how to do it right. You'll need to be careful to route your jumper wires to the battery terminals, and then make sure that the switch is in the "Start position".
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is where you insert your key into the car. This allows the system to enable electrical flow to your starter and start up the engine, however it isn't immune to wear and tear as other car components. The switch can also become stuck in its place or become locked. It is important to regularly check it for issues so you can take action prior to the car not starting.
It could be locked if the key is difficult to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition. This is a common problem for many vehicles and is because of a lack of lubrication. You can use a silicone or graphite-based grease to lubricate the release pin. Spray a little into the ignition and then try moving the key. If you're stuck you can try using a piler or hacksaw blade.
An issue with the ignition may cause other issues. The anti-theft feature may not function or the starter motor might not be able to turn on when you insert the key. It can also cause auxiliary functions to stop working or cease to function altogether.
A failing ignition switch can cause lots of wear and tear on other parts. If you have a keychain with multiple items, or a large one, this could stress the ignition switch and accelerate wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature changes can also impact the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch.
Once you have a replacement ignition switch, it's crucial to test it prior reassembling the steering column and the other components. Check that the replacement works and that the engine starts without issues. It is also important to confirm that the new ignition switch is compatible with the vehicle's make and model. If you're not confident in your ability to install an ignition switch that is new it could be worth employing a dealership service shop to complete the task for you. They can also test the new switch and install any other parts that require connecting or replaced.
