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 number of reasons. Some are easy and cheap to fix, others require specialized tools and help from a mechanic.
Lubricate the key socket first. You can make use of graphite powder or silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder is free of no obstructions or loose springs.
Battery
It could be that your battery is dead when your car won't start. This is a common issue which can be resolved by getting an extra jump or charging the battery. If this doesn't solve the problem, your ignition switch may be bad. This component supplies battery power to the other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is defective, it won't allow current to flow through it and the engine won't begin.
The battery is the source of all electrical energy in your vehicle. The battery is a black box with positive (+) and negatively (-) terminals on the top. The terminals can become damaged, preventing the battery from providing power to the rest the vehicle. You can clean the battery's terminals by disconnection of the battery and using a wire brush to eliminate any corrosion. You can also use baking soda as a solution to clean the terminals.
Your car's battery could be nearing the end of its life and will require replacement. A new battery will supply the correct voltage to your vehicle’s spark plugs. This is essential to ensure that your engine is running properly.
The ignition coil is responsible for turning low voltage from the battery to high voltage, which will then ignite your car's spark plugs to start the engine. If your ignition coil is defective, it will not be able spark the plugs. Your engine won't 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.
You may need to replace the starter motor, too. If you hear a grinding noise when you turn on your ignition, it is a sign that the bearings in the starter are starting to wear out. It is a costly repair, so it is recommended 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 a device that charges your battery while your engine is running. It also powers your car's electrical components. Examine the battery first if you suspect your alternator may be malfunctioning. This will allow 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 the power to the dashboard lights, windshield wipers and power windows, electric steering heated seats, and your radio even when the car is running. A voltmeter can be used to test the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery is less than 6 volts, then it needs to be charged or replaced immediately. Batteries that are dead or not charged can also stop the starter from turning the engine on, and will require additional jumper cables to begin your vehicle.
Before you begin removing the Alternator, turn off the ignition and secure all doors. You should also disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away somewhere safe and put on the safety equipment. Check out a repair manual that is specific to your vehicle for directions on how to remove the alternator, or any other parts.
After you've removed the belt, if your car has one remove the warning light wire from the side of the alternator. This wire will connect directly to the alternator terminal marked WL or IN. Certain vehicles, however, have a separate relay for this purpose. If the warning light doesn't come on, you should be able to identify a different issue.
You should regularly inspect your alternator for signs of malfunction. You can carry out certain of these tests yourself, but it's recommended to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab so they can examine it and provide you with expert advice. Our technicians can test for corrosion on your battery, battery posts (+ and +), fuses, relays and voltage output as well as cold starting amps and much more.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is a crucial component of the ignition system. It turns the engine over so that air can be drawn in, which is needed to ignite the fuel. It is typical for the starter motor to be the cause when your car isn't turning over. There are a number of troubleshooting methods to help you determine the issue and fix it.
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 that starts the engine. The pinion gear retracts when you remove the key, thereby preventing damage.
There are many things that can go wrong with the starter motor such as an electrical problem in the internal windings, mechanical issues (such as teeth no longer connecting to the pinion gear or flywheel) or a dead battery. A damaged starter motor could sound like a dead phone battery. It can make a clicking sound when it tries to turn the engine around.
If the starter motor isn't working, one of the first things a mechanic will check is the state of charge on the battery and its terminals. If the battery is corroded or is depleted it must be recharged or replaced.
Depending on how serious the issue is, a mechanic can also test the solenoid using a multimeter. The solenoid is a massive magnet switch, delivers a surge of power from the long battery cables to the starter. The switch connects the long battery cable to the windings inside the starter that turn the electric motor and also pushes an actuator rod that turns on an engaging fork which will then push the pinion gear to automatically engage with the flywheel.
Another option is to disable the ignition switch by using the jumper wire. This is only an interim solution and you shouldn't try it unless confident about how to do it. You'll need to route the jumper wire to battery terminals, and ensure that the switch is in the "Start" position.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is where you insert your car key. This will enable electrical flow to your starter and then start the engine, however it isn't immune to wear and tear like other parts of your car. The switch could also become stuck in its slot or be locked. It's important to check it regularly for any issues so that you can take action before the car doesn't start.
If your key seems to struggle to turn or it gets stuck in the ignition, it might be locked. This problem is common in vehicles because of a lack lubrication. Using Recommended Web-site or silicone-based grease on the pin that releases the key could aid. Spray some lubricant into the ignition and then turn the key. If it's still stuck use a piler or hacksaw blade to help move it.
An ignition issue can cause a variety of other issues, too. The anti-theft system might stop working or the starter motor might not start when you plug the key. This could also cause the auxiliary functions to stop working or stop functioning.
A malfunctioning ignition could cause additional wear and tear on other components. If you have keys that have multiple items, or a bulky one, this can stress the ignition switch, which can cause wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the lubricants and materials used in the ignition switch.
If you've got a new ignition switch, you need to test it before reassembling the steering column and other parts. Check that the replacement works and that your engine is running without issue. It is also important to confirm that the new ignition switch is compatible with your vehicle's model and model. If you're unsure of your ability to install an ignition switch that is new it could be worth hiring a service shop at a dealership to do it for you. They can also test and connect other components or replace them.