How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
If your vehicle starts and runs but the ignition switch isn't able to switch over the spark plugs, there could be a variety of reasons. Some are simple and inexpensive to fix, while others require specialized equipment and help of a mechanic.
Lubricate the key socket first. You can apply graphite powder or silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder has no obstructions or loose springs.
Battery
If your car isn't starting, it could be because your battery is dead. This is a common issue which can be resolved by getting a jump or charging of the battery. If this does not solve the problem, it is possible that the ignition switch is bad. This component is responsible for transferring battery power to other electrical components like the starter motor and ignition coil. If the ignition switch is damaged, it won't allow current to be passed through, and the engine will not start.
The battery is the main 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 become damaged, preventing the battery from providing power to the rest the vehicle. You can clean the battery's terminals by disconnecting the battery and using a wire brush to eliminate any corrosion. You can also use a baking soda solution to clean the terminals.
It's possible that your vehicle's battery is nearing the end of its life and is in need of replacement. A new battery will supply the proper voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs which is essential for a properly working engine.
The ignition coil converts low voltage from your battery 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. Your engine won't start. You can test the ignition coil by checking for a spark inside the engine or turning the key and observing whether the engine spins.
You may have to replace the starter motor, too. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn on your ignition, it's a sign that the bearings inside the starter are beginning to wear out. It can be an expensive repair, so it's best to replace your starter motor when you begin to begin to notice signs of wear. The starter motor can be changed by replacing some bolts and other parts.
Alternator
The alternator is an instrument that charges your battery when your engine is running. It also provides power to your car's electrical parts. If you suspect that there is a issue with your alternator, you must first test the battery. This will allow you to determine if your alternator draining the battery or if the battery is old and requires replacement.
When the vehicle is 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, electric steering, heated seats, and the power windows. You can use a voltmeter to check your battery and the alternator to determine the proper voltage levels. If your battery has less than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged right away. A low or dead batteries will also stop the starter from turning the engine on, and will require additional jumper cables in order to start your vehicle.
Before you begin dismantling the alternator, ensure that the ignition is off and all doors are locked. You should also disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away in a safe place and put on safety equipment. Check out a repair manual that is specific to your vehicle for instructions on how to remove the alternator or any other component.
After you've removed the belt, if the vehicle has one take off the warning light wire from the back of the alternator. It will typically connect directly to a terminal on the alternator that is marked either WL or IND. Certain vehicles, however, have a separate relay for this function. If your warning light doesn't blink, you may think about a different cause.
You should regularly inspect your alternator for indications of malfunction. You can perform some of these checks yourself, but it is best to bring your car to Les Schwab so that they can look it over and provide you with expert advice. Our technicians will test for corrosion on your battery, battery posts (+ and -) fuse, relays, and fuses as well as voltage output, cold starting amps, and much more.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential element of the ignition system. It is responsible for turning the engine so that it can take in air, which is necessary to ignite the fuel. It is common for the starter motor to be at fault when your car doesn't turn. There are a variety of methods of troubleshooting that can aid in diagnosing and fixing the problem.
When you turn on your car's ignition key, a switch inside the starter activates a pinion gear that is fitted into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear 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.
There are a myriad of things that can go wrong with 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 faulty starter motor can sound like a dead cell phone battery. It will make a clicking sound as it attempts to turn the engine around.
If the starter motor doesn't work One of the first things a mechanic should look at is the state of charge on the battery and its terminals. If the battery is low or has rust on its terminals, it'll need to be charged or replaced.
Depending on how serious the problem is, the mechanic can also test the solenoid using a multimeter. ignition lock repair is a large magnetic switch that delivers the power of the battery cables that are long and thick to the starter. This switch connects the thick cable from the battery to starter's windings which will turn the motor. It also triggers a rod to actuate an engaging fork, which causes the pinion to automatically engage with flywheel.
A jumper wire can be used to disable the ignition. This is an interim solution that you should not attempt it unless you are certain of the procedure. You'll need to route the jumper wire to the battery terminals and be sure the switch is in the "Start" position.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is the place where you insert your car key. This will allow electrical flow to your starter and start up the engine, but it isn't immune to wear and tear like other car components. The switch may also get stuck in its slot or get locked. You should check for problems regularly to identify the problem before the car won't start.
It could be locked if the key is difficult to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition. This is a common problem for a variety of vehicles and occurs due to a lack of lubrication. You can use a silicone or graphite-based lubricant to lubricate the 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.
An issue with the ignition could 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. This can also cause the secondary functions to stop working or stop functioning.
A malfunctioning ignition switch could also leave you with lots of wear and tear on other parts. If you have keys that have multiple items, or a large one, this could cause strain on the ignition switch, which can cause wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the lubricants and materials in the ignition switch.
It is important to test the replacement ignition switch before reassembling other components and the steering column. Make sure that the new ignition switch is working and that the engine starts smoothly. Double-check the compatibility of the new ignition switch with the vehicle's model and make. If you're not confident in your ability to install an ignition switch that is new, it might be worth hiring a dealership service shop to do it for you. They can also test the replacement and install any other components that require to be connected or replaced.