How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
If your vehicle starts and runs but the ignition switch doesn't switch over the spark plugs, it could be a number of reasons for this. Some are simple and cheap to fix, whereas others require specialized equipment and assistance of an expert mechanic.
Lubricate the key socket first. You can apply graphite powder or silicon spray. Also, make sure the ignition cylinder is free of obstructions and loose springs.
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 either charging your battery or a jump. If this doesn't fix the problem, it is possible that your ignition switch is bad. This component is responsible for transferring battery power to other electrical components such as the starter motor and ignition coil. If the ignition switch is damaged, it won't allow current to pass through and the engine won't start.
The battery is the primary source of electrical energy in your vehicle. The battery is a black, slender box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals at the top. The terminals may be corroded and stop the battery from supplying power to the rest the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery you can use a wire bristle to remove any corrosion. You can also use baking soda as a solution to help clean the terminals.
Your car battery may also be nearing the end of its lifespan and need to be replaced. A new battery will supply the proper voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs. This is necessary to ensure that your engine is running properly.
The ignition coil converts the battery's low voltage into high voltage to spark the spark plugs of your car, and to start the engine. If the ignition coil is damaged, it will not be able to ignite the plugs. The engine will not start. The ignition coil can be checked by examining the engine for a spark or turning the key to determine if it turns over.
You may have to replace the starter motor, too. If you hear a grating sound when you turn on your ignition, it's a sign that the bearings within the starter are starting to wear out. It could be a costly repair, so it is recommended to replace your starter motor when you begin to detect signs of wear. It's a relatively simple process that requires replacing the bolts and a few components.
Alternator
The alternator is an instrument that recharges your battery while your engine is running. It also provides power to your car's electrical parts. Examine the battery first if you suspect your alternator is malfunctioning. This will allow you to determine if your alternator draining the battery, or if your battery is old and in need of replacement.
Your car's alternator also supplies power for the dashboard lights, windshield wipers and power windows, electric steering heated seats, and your radio even when the vehicle is idling. A voltmeter can be used to test the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery is less than 6 volts, then it needs to be replaced or charged immediately. A dead or weak battery can also stop the starter motor from cranking the engine, and will require more jumper cables to get your car started.
Before you begin removing the Alternator, turn off the ignition and secure all doors. Disconnect the negative cable and store it safely. Wear safety gear. Consult a vehicle's specific repair manual for instructions on how to gain access to the alternator, as well as any other components you'll need to remove.
After you've removed your belt, if your car is equipped with one, disconnect the warning light wire from the back of the alternator. This wire will connect directly to an alternator terminal that is marked WL or IN. Some vehicles, however have a separate relay to perform this function. If the warning light doesn't come on, you should be able to identify a different issue.
You should check regularly your alternator for indications of malfunction. While you could perform some of the tests by yourself, you should bring your vehicle to Les Schwab for a no-cost inspection and expert advice. Our certified technicians will examine your battery, battery posts (the terminals marked + and +) for corrosion relays, fuses, voltage output and cold cranking amps, and more to determine what the problem is.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an important component of the ignition system. It rotates the engine to allow air to be sucked into it which will ignite the fuel. If your car isn't starting, it's typically due to a problem with the starter motor. Fortunately, there are several methods of troubleshooting that can be used to help you diagnose and fix the problem.
When ignition lock repair near me turn on the ignition of your vehicle, a switch on the starter is activated by a pinion gear that fits into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear is then turned the flywheel, which starts the engine. When you release the key the pinion gear retracts, and is released from the flywheel to avoid damage.
There are a myriad of things that could go wrong with the starter motor such as an electrical problem in the internal windings, mechanical issues (such as teeth not connecting to the pinion gear or flywheel) or a dead battery. A defective starter motor can sound like a dead battery. it'll make a clicking noise as it tries to turn the engine, but it won't.
If the starter motor isn't functioning One of the first things a mechanic should check 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 degree of the problem, the mechanic may also test the starter solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid, which is a large magnet switch, delivers a surge of power from the battery cables to the starter. This switch basically connects the long battery cable to the wires inside the starter that actually make the electric motor turn, plus it pushes an actuator rod that turns on an engaging fork that in turn pushes the gear pinion to automatically engage with the flywheel.
A jumper wire can be used to disable the ignition. This is a temporary option but it shouldn't be recommended unless you know how to do it right. You'll need to be careful about routing the jumper wire through the battery terminals and be sure the switch is set to the "Start" position.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is where you insert your car keys. This will allow electrical flow to the starter and then start the engine, but it isn't immune to wear and tear like other car parts. The switch could also get stuck in its slot or even locked. You should be looking for issues regularly so you can act before your car doesn't start.
If your key is experiencing a struggle to turn, or is stuck in the ignition, it may be locked. This issue occurs in many vehicles due to a lack of grease. You can make use of a graphite or silicone-based oil to lubricate your release pin. Spray a bit of it into the ignition and then try moving the key. If you're stuck, try using a piler or hacksaw blade.
A problem with the ignition may lead to other problems. The anti-theft function may stop working or the starter motor could not turn on when you insert the key. This could also cause the other functions to stop functioning or stop functioning.
A failing ignition switch can also cause a lot of extra wear and tear on other components. If you have a keychain with multiple items or a heavy one, this could stress the ignition switch and accelerate wear on the 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 reassembling the steering column and other components. Check that the replacement works and that the engine starts without issues. You should also double-check that the new ignition switch is compatible with the vehicle's make and model. If you're unsure of your ability to install the new ignition switch, it might be worth employing a dealership service shop to do it for you. They can also test the new switch and install any other components that require to be connected or replaced.