How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems

If your car starts and runs, but the ignition switch won't switch over the spark plugs, there could be a number of causes. Some are easy and inexpensive to fix, whereas others require specialized equipment and the assistance of a mechanic.

First, you need to lubricate the socket of the key. You can use either graphite powder, or a silicon aerosol spray. Also, ensure that the ignition cylinder is free of obstructions and springs that are loose.

Battery

If your car isn't starting, it could be due to the battery being dead. This is a common issue that can be fixed by an extra jump or charging the battery. If this doesn't fix the issue, your ignition switch may be defective. This component supplies battery power to other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is damaged it is not able to allow current be passed through, and the engine won't start.

The battery is the main source of the electrical energy that is used in your car. The battery is a black box that has positive (+) and negative (-) terminals at the top. The terminals can become corrosion-prone, which can stop the battery from providing power to the rest the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery, you can make use of a wire bristle to get rid of any corrosion. You can also apply baking soda to clean the terminals.

Your car battery may also be nearing the end of its lifespan and will require replacement. A new battery will supply the right voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs which is necessary for a properly working engine.

The ignition coil converts the battery's low voltage into high voltage to spark the spark plugs inside your car and then start the engine. If your ignition coil is defective it won't be able to spark the plugs. The engine will not start. The ignition coil can be tested by checking the engine for sparks or turning the key to determine whether it spins.

It is possible to replace the starter motor, too. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn on your ignition it means that the starter bearings are deteriorating. It could be a costly repair so it is best to replace your starter motor as soon as you begin to notice signs of wear. It's an easy process that requires replacing some bolts and parts.

Alternator

The alternator is the one that charges your battery and also powers the electrical components of your vehicle while the engine is running. If you suspect a issue with your alternator, you should first test the battery. This will help you determine whether your alternator is causing the battery to deplete or if your battery is old and needs to be replaced.

Your car's alternator also provides power for the dash lights, windshield wipers and power windows, electric steering heated seats, and your radio even when the vehicle is idling. You can use a voltmeter examine your battery and alternator for proper voltage levels. If your battery's voltage is lower than 6 volts, it should be replaced or charged immediately. A dead or weak battery can also stop the starter motor from turning the engine over and will require additional jumper cables to get your car ignition lock started.

Before you begin to dismantle the Alternator, turn off the ignition and secure all doors. Also, disconnect the negative cable from the battery, and then put it away somewhere safe and put on your safety gear. Consult a repair ignition lock cylinder manual specific to your vehicle for instructions on how to remove the alternator, or any other parts.

If your vehicle has a warning light wire, you can disconnect it from the side of the generator after taking off the belt. This wire will connect directly to an alternator terminal marked WL or IN. Certain vehicles have a separate relay that can perform this function. If your warning light doesn't blink, it's likely to be an issue with your vehicle.

The alternator is a vital component of your vehicle, and you must check it frequently to look for signs of problems. While you can do some of the tests yourself, it's best to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab for a complimentary inspection and expert advice. Our technicians can test for corrosion on your battery posts, battery (+ and +) and relays, fuses, as well as voltage output and cold starting amps and many more.

Starter Motor

The starter motor is an important element of the ignition system. It is responsible for turning over the engine to take in air, which is necessary to ignite the fuel. When your car won't start it is often due to a malfunction in the starter motor. There are a variety of troubleshooting techniques that can be used to help you diagnose and fix the problem.

When you turn on your vehicle's ignition, a switch in the starter is activated by an pinion gear that is fitted into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear then turns the flywheel, which then starts the engine. When you release the key the pinion gear retracts, and disengages from the flywheel to prevent damage.

The starter motor can be affected by a number of things, including mechanical issues (such as teeth not lining up on the flywheel) or dead cells. A defective starter motor will just sound like a dead battery; it'll make a click when it attempts to turn over the engine but can't.

If the starter motor doesn't work One of the first things a mechanic should look at is the state of charge of the battery and its terminals. If the battery is damaged or is depleted it needs to be charged or replaced.

Depending on the severity of the issue The mechanic can also test the starter solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid is a massive magnetic switch that delivers a rush of power from the battery cables that are long and thick to the starter. This switch connects the bulky cable from the battery to starter's windings that turns the motor. It also pushes the rod to activate an engaging fork which pushes the pinion to automatically engage the flywheel.

A jumper wire can be used to disable the ignition. This is a temporary option however it shouldn't be a recommendation unless you are able to do it correctly. You'll need to be careful to connect your jumper wires the battery terminals and make sure that the switch is in the "Start position".

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is where you insert your car key. 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 parts of your car. The switch could also become stuck in its slot or be locked. It is important to check for issues frequently to be able to act before your car doesn't start.

It is possible that your key was locked if the key is difficult to turn or gets stuck in the ignition. This problem occurs in a variety of vehicles due to a lack grease. You can apply a graphite- or silicone-based lubricant to lubricate the release pin. Spray some lubricant into the auto ignition key replacement, then move the key. If it's still stuck make use of a piler or a hacksaw blade to help move it.

A problem with the ignition can also cause other issues. The anti-theft feature may not function or the starter motor might not turn on when you insert the key. It can also cause auxiliary functions to lose power or cease to function at all.

A malfunctioning ignition could cause extra wear and tear on other parts. For instance, if have a large keychain or a variety of items on your keychain, it could put strain on the auto locksmith ignition replacement switch when you plug it in and accelerate the wear on its internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations can also affect the lubricants and materials in the ignition switch.

If you've purchased a replacement ignition switch, you need to test it prior to assembling the steering column and the other components. Be sure that the replacement ignition switch is working and that your engine is running smoothly. Double-check the compatibility of the new ignition switch with your vehicle model and model. It could be worth it to have a dealership install the ignition switch for you, if you are not confident about your ability to do so. They can also test the new switch and install any other parts that need to be connected or replaced.