How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
If your car is running and starts, but the ignition switch doesn't switch over the spark plugs, there could be a myriad of causes. Some are easy and inexpensive to fix, whereas others require special equipment and the assistance of a mechanic.
The first step is to lubricate the key socket. You can use graphite powder or silicon aerosol spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder is clean and has no obstructions or loose springs.
Battery
It could be that your battery is dead when your car isn't starting. This is a common problem that can be resolved by either charging your battery or a jump. If this doesn't fix the issue the ignition switch could be bad. The switch is the one that supplies battery power to the other electrical components, including the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is defective it won't permit current to flow through it and the engine will not start.
The battery is responsible for all the electrical energy you use in your vehicle. It's a dark box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on top. The terminals could get corroded, preventing the battery from providing electricity to the rest of the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery you can use a wire bristle to remove any corrosion. You can also clean the terminals with baking soda as a solution.
Your car's battery could be nearing the end of its lifespan and requires replacement. A new battery will provide the proper voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs. This is necessary for a properly functioning engine.
The ignition coil is responsible for turning low voltage from the battery into high voltage, which will then ignite the spark plugs in your car to start the engine. If your ignition coil is defective, it will not be able spark the plugs. The engine will not start. You can test the ignition coil by looking for a spark in the engine or turning the key to see whether the engine spins.
It is possible to replace the starter motor too. If you hear a grating sound when you turn the ignition key, this means that the starter bearings are wearing out. It can be an expensive repair, so it is recommended to replace your starter motor as soon as 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. Check the battery first if you suspect your alternator may be 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 the power to the windshield wipers, dash lights, power windows, electric steering, heated seats and your radio when the car is running. 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 should be charged immediately or replaced. A low or dead batteries will also stop the starter from turning the engine on, and will require additional jumper cables to start your vehicle.
Before you begin dismantling the Alternator, shut off the ignition and lock all doors. You should also disconnect the negative cable from the battery, and then put it away in a safe location and put on safety gear. Consult a vehicle's specific repair manual for guidance on how to gain access to the alternator, as well as any other parts you need to remove.
If your vehicle has a warning light wire, you can disconnect it from the side of the generator after removing the belt. This wire will usually connect directly to an alternator's terminal that's marked as WL or IND. Some vehicles, however, have an additional relay for this purpose. If the warning light doesn't blink, you may think about a different cause.
The alternator is a vital part of your vehicle, and you should check it frequently to look for signs of problems. You can perform some of these checks yourself, but it is recommended to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab so they can examine it and give you expert advice. Our technicians can test for corrosion on your battery posts, battery (+ and -) and relays, fuses, and voltage output and cold starting amps and many more.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential element of the ignition system. It turns the engine so that air can be sucked into it, which is needed to ignite the fuel. car ignition key replacement is typical that the starter motor will be the cause when your car won't turn over. There are several troubleshooting techniques to help you determine the issue and resolve it.
When you turn the key on the ignition of your vehicle the switch inside the starter turns on a pinion gear that fits 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 many things that could be wrong with the starter motor, including an electrical failure in the internal windings, mechanical issues (such as teeth no longer connecting to the flywheel or pinion gear) or a dead battery. A faulty starter motor can sound like a dead phone battery. It can make a clicking sound when it attempts to turn the engine around.
The state of charge and the terminals of the battery will be checked by a mechanic if the starter motor doesn't work. If the battery is depleted or has rust on its terminals, it will need to be charged or replaced.
Depending on how severe the issue is, a mechanic could also test the solenoid using 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 essentially connects the long battery cable to the windings inside the starter, which turn the electric motor as well as it pulls an actuator rod that turns on an engaging fork that will then push the gear pinion to automatically engage with the flywheel.
A jumper wire can be used to bypass the ignition. This is a temporary option but it shouldn't be recommended unless you're 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 allow electrical flow to your starter and to start the engine, but it's not immune from wear and tear like other parts of your car. The switch can also become stuck in its slot or locked. It is essential to check it regularly for problems so that you can act before the car doesn't start.
If your key seems to struggle to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition, it might be locked. This issue is common in vehicles due to a lack of grease. Using a graphite or silicone-based oil on the release pin can aid. Spray a small amount into the ignition, and then try moving the key. If you're stuck then try using a piler or hacksaw blade.
A problem with the ignition can also cause other issues. The anti-theft feature may stop working or the starter motor might not be able to turn on when you insert the key. This could also cause the auxiliary functions to stop working or lose power.
A malfunctioning ignition switch could also cause a lot of wear and tear on other parts. For example, if you carry a bulky keychain or multiple items on your keychain, it could put strain on the ignition switch when you plug it in, and could increase the wear on its internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the materials and lubricants in the ignition switch.
It is crucial to test the new ignition switch prior to reassembling other parts and the steering column. Make sure that the new ignition switch functions and that your engine starts smoothly. You should also double-check that the new ignition switch is compatible with your vehicle's make and model. If you're not sure of your ability to install a new ignition switch you might consider hiring a service shop at a dealership to install it for you. They can also test the replacement and install any other components that require to be connected or replaced.