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 could be a myriad of causes. Some are simple and inexpensive to fix, while others require specialized tools and help from an expert mechanic.
The first step is to lubricate the socket that holds the key. You can make use of graphite powder or silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder has no obstructions or loose springs.
Battery
It could be that your battery is dead when your vehicle won't start. This is a common issue which can be resolved by an extra jump or charging the battery. If this doesn't solve the problem, your ignition switch may be defective. does a new ignition switch require a new key supplies battery power to other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is damaged it won't permit current to flow through, and the engine won't start.
The battery is the source of all the electrical energy that is used in your car. It's a dark box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on the top. The terminals could become corroded and prevent the battery from providing electricity to the rest of the vehicle. Clean the battery terminals by disconnecting the battery and using a wire brush to get rid of any corrosion. You can also apply baking soda as a solution to help clean the terminals.
It is possible that your vehicle's battery has just reached the end of its life and is in need of replacement. A new battery will provide the proper voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs. This is essential to ensure that your engine is running properly.
The ignition coil converts low voltage from your battery into high voltage that causes the spark plugs of your car and then start the engine. If your ignition coil is not working properly and not functioning properly, it will not be able spark the plugs. The engine will not start. You can test the ignition coil by checking whether there is a spark in the engine or turning the key to see if the engine turns over.
It is also possible to replace the starter motor. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn the ignition key it is a sign that the starter bearings are deteriorating. It can be an expensive repair so it is best to replace your starter motor when you begin to notice signs of wear. The starter motor can be changed by replacing the bolts and components.
Alternator
The alternator is an instrument that charges your battery while your engine is running. It also powers your car's electrical components. If you suspect that there is a problem with your alternator, you should test the battery first. This will enable you to determine if your alternator draining the battery, or if your battery is old and requires replacement.
While the vehicle is in idle the alternator is able to supply power to the dash lights as well as the radio. It also powers the windshield wipers as well as the power windows, the electric steering, the heated seats and the power windows. A voltmeter can be utilized to test the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery is less than 6 volts, it must be charged or replaced immediately. A dead or weak battery will also prevent the starter motor from turning the engine over and will require more jumper cables to start your car.
Before you begin to dismantle the alternator, switch off the ignition and secure all doors. Also, disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away somewhere safe and put on safety equipment. Check out a repair manual that is specific to your vehicle to get instructions on how to remove the alternator, or any other parts.
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 will usually connect directly to the alternator's terminal that's marked WL or IND. Some vehicles, however have a separate relay to perform this purpose. If your warning light does not blink, it's likely that there is an issue with your vehicle.
The alternator is an essential component of your vehicle, and you should examine it regularly for signs of trouble. You can perform certain of these tests yourself, but it is best to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab so they can inspect it and offer you advice from a professional. Our technicians can test for corrosion on your battery posts, battery (+ and -), fuses, relays as well as voltage output and cold starting amps and more.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential component of the ignition system. It is responsible for turning over the engine to suck into air, which is essential to ignite the fuel. If your car won't start, it's typically due to a malfunction in the starter motor. There are several ways to troubleshoot that can help you identify the problem and fix it.
When you turn on your car's ignition key, a switch inside the starter activates a pinion gear that fits into grooves of the flywheel. The pinion gear then turns 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, a mechanical problem (such as teeth no longer meshing with the flywheel or pinion gear) or a dead battery. A defective starter motor will just sound like a dead battery; it'll make a clicking noise when it attempts to turn the engine, but won't.
If the starter motor isn't working One of the first things a mechanic should examine is the condition of charge on the battery and its terminals. If the battery is not fully charged or has corrosion on its terminals, it will require charging or replaced.
Depending on how severe the issue is, the mechanic may also test the solenoid using a multimeter. The solenoid, which is a large magnet switch, sends an energy surge from the battery cables to the starter. This switch essentially connects the battery cable to windings within the starter that actually activate the electric motor and also pushes a rod that actuates an engaging fork which will then push the gear that pinions to automatically engage with the flywheel.
Another option is to disable the ignition switch using a jumper wire. This is a temporary solution however it shouldn't be a recommendation unless you're able to do it right. You'll need to be careful to connect 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 the place where you insert your car keys. This allows the system to allow electrical flow to the starter and then start the engine, however it's not immune to wear and tear like other car components. The switch can also become stuck in its slot or locked. It is important to check for issues regularly so you can act before your car doesn't start.
It could have been locked if your key is difficult to turn or gets stuck in the ignition. This is a common issue for a variety of vehicles and occurs because of a lack of lubrication. Using some graphite or silicone-based lubricant on the release pin can aid. 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.
An ignition problem can lead to a number of other issues too. The anti-theft feature could stop working or the starter motor could not turn on when you insert the key. It could also cause other functions to lose power or cease to function at all.
A damaged ignition may cause additional wear and tear on other parts. If you own keys that have multiple items or a heavy one, this could put strain on the ignition switch and accelerate wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the lubricants and materials in the ignition switch.
It is important to test the new ignition switch before reassembling other parts and the steering column. Make sure the replacement ignition switch functions and that your engine is running smoothly. Also, make sure the new ignition switch is compatible with the vehicle's make and model. If you're unsure of your ability to install an ignition switch that is new it could be worth employing a dealership service shop to install it for you. They can also test and connect any other components or replace them.