How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
If your car starts and runs, but the ignition switch isn't able to turn over the spark plugs, it could be a myriad of causes. Some are easy and cheap to fix, while others require specialized tools and help from an expert mechanic.
Lubricate the key socket first. You can apply graphite powder or silicon aerosol spray. Also, make sure the ignition cylinder is free of any obstructions and loose springs.
Battery
If your car isn't starting, it could be because the battery is dead. This is a frequent issue which can be resolved with a jump or charging of the battery. If this doesn't fix the problem, your ignition switch may be defective. This component is responsible for transferring power from the battery to other electrical components, such as the starter motor as well as the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is not working properly, it is not able to allow current pass through and the engine won't start.
The battery is the source of all the electrical energy that is used in your car. The battery is a black, slender box that has positive (+) and negative (-) terminals at the top. The terminals can become corroded and prevent the battery from supplying power to the rest of the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery, you can employ a wire bristle remove any corrosion. You can also use baking soda 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 right voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs. This is crucial for a properly functioning engine.
The ignition coil converts the battery's low voltage into high voltage to spark the spark plugs of your car and then start the engine. If your ignition coil is not working properly, it will not be able spark the plugs. Your engine won't start. The ignition coil can be inspected by checking the engine for sparks or turning the key to determine if it turns over.
You may have to replace the starter motor, too. If you hear a grinding sound as you turn on your ignition, this means that the starter bearings are wearing out. This could be a costly repair so it's best to replace the motor of your starter early if you notice any signs of wear and tear. The starter motor can be changed by replacing some bolts and other components.
Alternator
The alternator charges your battery and also powers the electrical components of your car while the engine is running. Test the battery first if you suspect that your alternator may be malfunctioning. This will allow you to determine if your alternator is 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 and radio. It also powers the windshield wipers as well as the power windows, electric steering, the heated seats, and the power windows. A voltmeter can be used to test the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery's voltage is lower than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged as soon as possible. A low or dead battery can also stop the starter motor from cranking the engine over and will require additional jumper cables to get your car started.
Before you begin to dismantle the Alternator, shut off the ignition and secure all doors. Also, disconnect the negative cable from the battery, and then put it away in a safe location and put on your safety equipment. Consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for instructions on how to remove the alternator, or any other parts.
After you've removed the belt, if your vehicle is equipped with one take off the warning light wire from the side of the alternator. The wire will be connected directly to the alternator terminal identified WL or IN. Some vehicles have an additional relay that performs this function. If your warning light does not blink, it's likely that there is a different issue.
The alternator is a vital part of your vehicle, and it is important to inspect it regularly to look for signs of problems. While G28 Car Keys can perform some of the checks by yourself, you should bring your vehicle into Les Schwab for a complimentary inspection and expert advice. Our trained technicians can test your battery, battery posts (the terminals that are marked + and -) for corrosion, fuses, relays as well as voltage output, cold cranking amps and more to determine what the problem is.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is a crucial element of the ignition system. It is responsible for turning over the engine to draw in air, which is required to ignite the fuel. If your car isn't starting, it is often due to a problem with the starter motor. There are a number of troubleshooting methods that can help you diagnose the problem and fix it.
When you turn on your car's ignition key, a switch inside the starter turns on a pinion-gear that is fitted into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear is then turned the flywheel, which then begins the engine. The gear retracts once you remove the key, thereby preventing damage.
There are a myriad of things that can go wrong with the starter motor, for example, an electrical issue in the internal windings, a mechanical issue (such as teeth not meshing on the pinion gear or flywheel) or a dead battery. A damaged starter motor could sound like a dead phone battery. It can make a clunk sound as it tries but cannot turn the engine.
The charge level and the terminals of the battery will be examined by a mechanic in the event that the starter motor does not work. If the battery is damaged or is not functioning properly, it will need to charged or replaced.
Depending on the degree of the problem, the mechanic could test the starter solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid, which is a large magnet switch, delivers an energy surge from the long battery cables to the starter. The switch connects the long battery cable to the wires inside the starter that make the electric motor turn as well as it pulls a rod that actuates an engaging fork that in turn pushes 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 know how to perform it correctly. You will need to carefully connect your jumper wires the battery terminals and 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 will allow electrical flow to the starter and start up the engine, however it's not immune to wear and tear as other parts of your car. The switch may also get stuck inside its slot or be locked. It is essential to check it regularly for problems so that you can take action before the car stops working.
If your key is experiencing a struggle to turn, or is stuck in the ignition, it might have been locked. This is a problem that occurs in many vehicles due to a lack of lubrication. You can make use of a graphite or silicone-based lubricant to lubricate the release pin. Spray a bit of it into the ignition and then try moving the key. If it's still stuck, use a piler or hacksaw blade to assist in moving it.
A problem with the ignition could lead to other problems. The anti-theft system might stop working or the starter motor may not turn on when you put the key. It can also cause auxiliary functions to lose power or cease to function altogether.
A malfunctioning ignition switch could also cause a lot of wear and tear on other components. For instance, if carry a bulky keychain or multiple items on your keychain it can strain the ignition switch when you insert it in and can accelerate the wear and tear on its internal components. Extreme temperature changes can also affect the lubricants and materials used in the ignition switch.
If you've purchased a replacement ignition switch, it's important to test it prior reassembling the steering column and other components. Make sure that the switch works and that your engine is running without issue. 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 the new ignition switch, it might be worth hiring a dealership service shop to complete the task for you. They can also test and connect other parts or replace them.