How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
There are many reasons why your car may start and run, but the ignition doesn't start the spark plugs. Some are simple and cheap to fix, while others require specialized equipment and the help of an expert mechanic.
First, lubricate the socket of the key. You can apply graphite powder or silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder has no loose springs or obstructions.
Battery
It could be that your battery is dying if your vehicle won't start. This is a common problem that can be fixed by getting a jump or charging of the battery. If this doesn't solve the issue the ignition switch could be bad. This component supplies battery power to the other electrical components, including 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 begin.
The battery is responsible for all the electrical energy that is used in your car. It's a black, insulated box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals that are on the top. The terminals can become corroded and prevent the battery from supplying electricity to the rest of the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery, you can employ a wire bristle remove any corrosion. You can also clean the terminals using a baking soda solution.
It's also possible that your car battery is at the end of its life and is in need of replacement. A new battery will provide the correct voltage to your vehicle’s spark plugs. This is necessary to ensure that your engine is running properly.
The ignition coil is responsible for converting low voltage from the battery into high voltage that can ignite the spark plugs of your car to start the engine. If car ignition replacement near me is damaged it will not be in a position to ignite the plugs and the engine won't start. You can test the ignition coil by checking whether there is a spark in the engine or turning the key to see whether the engine is turning.
You may have to replace the starter motor too. If you hear a grating sound when you turn on your ignition, it means that the bearings within the starter are starting to wear out. This can be a costly repair therefore it is recommended to replace the motor of your starter early if you notice any signs of wear and tear. It's a relatively simple process that involves replacing the bolts and a few components.
Alternator
The alternator is a device that charges your battery when 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 malfunctioning. This will allow you to determine if your alternator is causing the battery to run out or whether your battery is old and should be replaced.
The alternator in your car also provides power for your windshield wipers, dash lights, power windows, electric steering, heated seats and your radio when the car is running. A voltmeter can be used to test the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery has less than 6 volts it should be replaced or charged right away. A dead or weak battery will also prevent the starter motor from turning the engine, and will require more jumper cables to start your car.
Before you begin dismantling the alternator, ensure that the ignition is turned off and that all doors are locked. Disconnect the negative cable and store it in a safe place. Wear safety equipment. Check out a specific vehicle repair manual to learn how to access the alternator as well as any other parts you need to take off.
If your car has a warning light wire, you can remove it from the side of the generator after removing the belt. This wire will connect directly to the alternator terminal marked WL or IN. Some vehicles have a separate relay to perform this function. If your warning light does not come on, it is likely that you have a different issue.
It is recommended to regularly check your alternator for signs of malfunction. While you can perform some of the tests yourself, it's best to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab for a no-cost inspection and expert advice. Our certified technicians will test your battery, battery posts (the terminals marked + and -) for corrosion, fuses, relays, voltage output, cold cranking amps and more to determine what the issue is.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is a crucial component of the ignition system. It turns the engine so that air can be sucked in and ignite the fuel. It is quite common for the starter motor to be the cause of your car won't turn over. There are a variety of methods of troubleshooting that can assist you in identifying and fixing the issue.
When you turn on your vehicle's ignition, a switch on the starter turns on an pinion gear that is fitted into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear turns the flywheel that starts the engine. The gear retracts when you release the key to avoid damage.
There are a myriad of things that could cause problems in the starter motor, such as an electrical problem in the internal windings, a mechanical problem (such as teeth not meshing on the flywheel or pinion gear) or a dead battery. A malfunctioning starter motor may sound like a dead phone battery. It can make a clicking sound as it tries to turn the engine over.
If the starter motor doesn't work, one of the first things a mechanic should check is the state of charge of the battery and its terminals. If the battery is not fully charged or has rust on its terminals it will require charging or replaced.
Depending on how severe the problem is, the mechanic could test the solenoid by using a multimeter. The solenoid is a large magnetic switch that delivers an electric current from the battery cables that are long and thick to the starter. This switch essentially connects the thick battery cable to the wires inside the starter that actually activate the electric motor as well as it pulls the rod, which turns an engaging fork that in turn pushes the gear pinion to automatically engage with the flywheel.
A jumper wire can be used to bypass the ignition. This is only a temporary solution however it shouldn't be a recommendation unless you are able to do it right. You'll need to take care to connect your jumper wires to the battery terminals and make sure that the switch is in the "Start position".
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is the place where you insert your car key. This switch is used by the system to start the engine and to send electric current to the starter. However, it is not immune to wear and tear like other parts of the car. The switch could also become stuck inside its slot or become locked. You should be looking for issues regularly to identify the problem before your car doesn't start.
If your key seems to struggle to turn, or is stuck in the ignition, it might have been locked. This is a common issue for many vehicles and is due to a lack of lubrication. Using some graphite or silicone-based lubricant on the release pin can help. Spray a small amount into the ignition and then try moving the key. If it's stuck you can try using a piler or hacksaw blade.
An issue with the ignition can also lead to other problems. The anti-theft function may not function or the starter motor could not be able to turn on when you insert the key. It could also cause other functions to stop working or not work at all.
A damaged ignition may cause extra wear and tear on other parts. If you own keys with many items, or a bulky one, this can stress the ignition switch and increase wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the materials and lubricants in the ignition switch.
It is important to test the new ignition switch prior to reassembling other components and the steering column. Make sure the replacement ignition switch is working and that your engine is running smoothly. Make sure that the new ignition switch with your car's model and make. It may be worthwhile to get a dealership to install the ignition switch for you if you aren't sure about your ability to install it. They can also test and connect any other components or replace them.