How to Fix Ignition Lock Car Ignition Problems

The car will not start until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to malfunction.

You can remove the trim on your steering column using specialized tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it correctly.

1. Make sure to check the Switch

A defective switch is among the most common ignition issues. It regulates when relays are activated and deactivated, acting as bridge. It is less likely to fail due to the fact that it doesn't channel full power from devices such as the starter. However, it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or damaged or corroded.

A bad switch is identified by a difficult time turning the key ignition replacement. This can be caused by a number of factors that include incorrectly inserting a key or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's also commonplace for people to misplace their keys to their car with someone else's, which can lead to mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. You'll first want to ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no electrical issues with the system. You should also check the voltage of every component to ensure they are sufficient power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to start troubleshooting.

Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of metal that connects everything. It's necessary to use a flathead and something long enough for you to push the pin into. You can use anything from a paintbrush to a Kabob stick, but you should avoid anything that is brittle, as it can be broken into the hole.

When you're ready to do the work, you'll need to take away any trim pieces that cover the area around the ignition switch. Once you've done this, loosen and remove any screws that keep the switch in place then gently remove it. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect any cables connected to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle and model, it will show you exactly how to do it.

It's best to get the ignition switch replaced by professionals in the event that it isn't working. Replacing it can involve disabling the steering column which could result in unintentional airbag deployment if it's done incorrectly. This is why it's best to have the locksmith in your area handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

If you can't turn the ignition key or your car won't start, the issue could be related to any number of components in your car ignition switch replacement's ignition system. It is important to know how the ignition system functions to be able to spot issues and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is controlled by the key. It has four positions, which include "off", "accessory", "run" and the "lock". If the switch is in the lock position (which usually has an indicator in red), the ignition circuit is live and it is not possible to start the engine.

You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch or coil. The voltmeter should read approximately 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the run position. If the voltage is below that then there is an open circuit within the system. This could be a solenoid, the battery or the ignition coil.

Remove the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity modes and place one lead on one of the terminals of the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter is "open" or fails to register any voltage, you should replace the switch.

If you're replacing the switch, make certain to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will run and start correctly. Also, when you replace the ignition switch, be cautious not to touch the ignition cylinder pins with your tools or they'll get stuck and the engine will not start. In certain vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge, and it is not recommended until you have an owner’s manual that says it's safe. If you do not then you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've worked your way through the wiring, battery and ignition switch, but you can't get your car start, it may be time to check the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is connected to the lock on the steering wheel so a would-be thief can't control the car ignition switch repair without the key.

If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you may notice that the key won't turn. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder are stuck when they adjust to the shape of your key, which could cause your car ignition lock to not start. The cylinder may also be sloppy. A tap using a small tackhammer will help. Be careful not to mix with the springs and make sure your key is correctly installed.

Another indication that your cylinder is failing is if you have to move the key around and try multiple positions before it starts. This is a red flag and should be corrected immediately, since it will continue to get worse as time passes.

To test the cylinder, you'll have to disconnect your battery and remove the cover from your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be easy to remove, as should the cylinder made of steel. If you don't own an extra switch, you might be able to take the original ignition cylinder and switch to locksmiths for reuse so long as they're in good working order. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder, make sure to reconnect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the panels and covers that you removed.

4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the ignition system's last link. The engine will not run if the spark plug breaks. It could be that your car won't start at all or will run badly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one or more things are preventing or impeding electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which ignites the mixture of fuel and air inside your engine.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure you're working on a level surface and using gloves and tools that are protected to avoid being zapped. Spark plugs can be hot and cause serious injuries if you touch them with your skin.

If a spark plug goes bad, you might notice that the tip of the central electrode has a slight brown or gray residue on it. It could also have a black coating on the side of the electrode. The deposits or fouling may prevent high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.

If you suspect that your spark plugs could be at fault you can test them by removing the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you'll be required to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded, and start the engine. If they're functioning you should see a bright blue spark at the tip of central electrode.

If you aren't seeing a spark, you've found the problem. Next, you'll need to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each component until the spark plugs stop working. Every system will wear out and eventually break and this is especially true for ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can slow the process down and avoid a major problem at the worst moment.