How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
There are a variety of reasons your car may start and run, but the ignition doesn't turn on the spark plugs. Some are easy and cheap to fix, while others require special tools and assistance from an expert mechanic.
The first step is to lubricate the socket of the key. You can use graphite powder or a silicon spray. Also, make sure the ignition cylinder is free of obstructions and springs that are loose.
Battery
It could be that your battery is dead when your vehicle won't start. This is a common issue that can be fixed by a jump or charging the battery. If this doesn't fix the problem, it is possible that your ignition switch is not working properly. G28 Car Keys is the one that supplies battery power to other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is defective it will not allow current to flow through it and the engine will not start.
The battery is responsible for all the electrical energy you use in your car. It's a black box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals that are on top. The terminals may become corroded, preventing the battery from supplying 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.
Your car battery may also be nearing the end of its life and need to be replaced. A new battery will provide the correct 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, which causes it to ignite the spark plugs in your car and then start the engine. If your ignition coil is not working properly it won't be able spark the plugs. Your engine won't start. The ignition coil can be checked by examining the engine for a spark or turning the key to determine whether it spins.
You may need to replace the starter motor as well. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn on your ignition, this means that the starter bearings are worn out. It can be an expensive repair, so it's best to replace your starter motor as soon as you notice signs of wear. Changing the starter motor is an easy process that involves replacing a few parts and bolts.
Alternator
The alternator charges your battery and powers the electrical parts of your car while the engine is running. Check the battery first if you suspect your alternator is failing. This will enable you to determine if the alternator is draining the battery or if your battery is old and in need of replacement.
The alternator in your car also provides power for your windshield wipers, dash lights, power windows, electric steering, heated seats and your radio even when the car is running. You can use a voltmeter test your battery and alternator for the proper voltage levels. If your battery is less than 6 volts, it must be charged or replaced immediately. A low or dead batteries will also stop the starter from turning over the engine and may require additional jumper cables to begin your car.
Before you begin removing the Alternator, turn off the ignition and lock all doors. It is also important to disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away in a safe place and put on the safety equipment. 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 take off.
If your vehicle is equipped with a warning light wire, you can disconnect it from the back of the generator after taking off the belt. It will typically connect directly to the alternator's terminal that's labeled WL or IND. Certain vehicles have a separate relay that can perform this function. If your warning light does not appear, you must be able to identify a different issue.
You should check regularly your alternator for any signs of malfunction. You can do certain of these tests yourself, but it is best to bring your car to Les Schwab so that they can inspect it and give you expert advice. Our technicians can test for corrosion on your battery, battery posts (+ and +) fuse, relays, and fuses and voltage output, cold starting amps, and more.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential element of the ignition system. It is responsible for turning over the engine so that it can suck in air, which is necessary to ignite the fuel. It is typical for the starter motor to be the cause of your car won't turn over. Fortunately, there are several methods of troubleshooting that can help you diagnose and fix the issue.
When you turn on your vehicle's ignition key, a switch in the starter turns on a pinion-gear that fits into grooves of the flywheel. The pinion gear turns the flywheel that initiates the engine. When you release the key, the pinion gear retracts and disengages from the flywheel to avoid damage.
There are a variety of things that can go wrong with the starter motor, including an electrical failure in the internal windings, a mechanical issue (such as teeth not connecting to the flywheel or pinion gear) or a dead battery. A damaged starter motor could sound like a dead phone battery. It will make a clicking sound when it tries but cannot turn the engine over.
If the starter motor doesn't work, one of the first things a mechanic would examine is the condition of charge of the battery and its terminals. If the battery has corrosion or is not functioning properly it needs to be recharged or replaced.
Depending on how severe the issue is, the mechanic can also test the solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid is a large magnetic switch that delivers the power of the battery cables that are long and thick to the starter. The switch connects the thick battery cable to the wires inside the starter, which turn the electric motor and also pushes an actuator rod that turns on an engaging fork that will then push the pinion gear to automatically engage with the flywheel.
Another option is to disable the ignition switch using the jumper wire. This is a temporary option, and it isn't recommended unless you know how to perform it correctly. You'll need to take care to connect your jumper wires 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 key. This will allow electrical flow to your starter and start up the engine, but it's not immune from wear and tear like other car parts. The switch could also become stuck in its slot or get locked. It is important to check for issues regularly so you can act before the car won't start.
It could be locked if your key is difficult to turn or gets stuck in the ignition. This is a common problem for many vehicles and is because of a lack of lubrication. You can use a silicone or graphite-based lubricant to lubricate the release pin. Spray some lubricant onto the ignition, and then move the key. If it's still stuck make use of a piler or a hacksaw blade to assist in moving it.
A problem with the ignition may cause other issues. The anti-theft function may not function or the starter motor might not turn on when you insert the key. This can cause auxiliary functions to stop working or lose power.
A damaged ignition may cause additional wear and tear on other parts. For instance, if carry a bulky keychain, or several items on your keychain, it could put strain on the ignition switch when you put it in and can accelerate the wear on its internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations can impact the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch.
If you've purchased a replacement ignition switch, you need to test it prior reassembling the steering column and other parts. Make sure the replacement works and that your engine starts without any issues. It is also important to confirm 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 could be worth hiring a service shop at a dealership to install it for you. They will also test the replacement and install any other parts that require connecting or replaced.