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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems The car will not start unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to malfunction. With the help of special tools, you are able to remove the trim on your steering column and access the ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair manual to learn how to do it right. 1. Check the Switch One of the most frequently encountered ignition issues is a defective switch. It functions as an intermediary between two contacts, regulating when relays activate and deactivate. Because it doesn't channel the full power of devices like the starter, it's a lighter component that's less likely to fail. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corroded. A defective switch can be identified by a difficult time turning the key. This could be due to many factors, including not inserting the correct key correctly or wearing down the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon to see people mix keys with those of others. This can cause mechanical damage. If the switch isn't working there are a few things you could try before calling a locksmith. First, you must ensure that the battery is fully charged and there aren't any electrical issues within the system. You should also verify the voltage of every component to ensure that they are providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, you're ready to begin troubleshooting. Fortunately, the ignition switch is pretty simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of equipment that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to press the pin inside. This can be anything from paintbrush handles to kabob skewer, but you should avoid using any brittle material that could break inside the hole. If you're ready for the work, you'll have to take off any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. Once you've done this, loosen and remove any screws that hold the switch in place, and then gently remove it. Depending on the model you might need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. If you have an instruction manual for your vehicle, this will tell you exactly how to do this. If the ignition switch isn't functioning it is recommended to have it replaced by professionals. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch, without disabling your steering column. This could lead to an unintentional airbag being deployed when you don't do it correctly. car ignition switch is recommended to allow your locksmith to take care of this. 2. Check the Wire Your car may not start if you cannot turn the key or if it isn't starting. This could be due to any variety of components in the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions will help you identify problems and make the necessary repairs. The ignition switch is an electric switch with multiple poles that is controlled by the key. It has four positions, including “off”, “accessory”, “run” and the “lock”. When the switch is in the lock position (which typically has an indicator in red), the ignition circuit is active and it is not possible to start the engine. To determine whether the ignition switch is damaged or if the ignition coil itself is bad, you have to conduct an electrical test using a voltmeter. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage is below that then there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or even the ignition coil itself. Connect the electrical connector to the ignition switch so that no other components can interfere with the test. Then, set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance mode and place one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage gauge shows “open” or doesn't register any voltage then it's time to replace the switch. Use a brand new ignition key and high-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure your vehicle starts and runs correctly. Also, when replacing the ignition switch, be careful not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools or they'll get stuck and your engine won't start. In some vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and the gear selector in order to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult, and it is not recommended until you have an owner's manual that says it's safe. If you don't, it is possible to cause serious damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism. 3. Check the Cylinder If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch but can't get your car to start, it could be time to look at the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the lock on the steering wheel to ensure that thieves can't control the car without the key. If your cylinder has started to wear out, you could find that the key doesn't turn. The pins inside the cylinder could become stuck when they adapt to the shape of your key. This can cause your car to not start. Or, the cylinder might be loose however a tap using a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Be careful not to mix up the springs and ensure that your key is properly inserted. Another indication that your cylinder is failing is when you need to turn the key and try different positions before it begins. This is a bad sign and must be fixed immediately, since it will only get worse over time. To examine the cylinder you'll have to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover from your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be simple to take off, as will the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able to take your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to a locksmith for reuse as long as they're in good working order. After replacing the switch and cylinder, make sure you connect the wiring harness and secure it and then reattach any covers or panels you've removed. 4. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. The engine won't start if the spark plug breaks. It could be that your car will not start at all or it will run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one of several factors are hindering or blocking electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which ignites the fuel mixture and air inside your engine. Make sure you wear protective tools and gloves before working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when touched with bare skin. When a spark plug goes bad, you might notice that the tip of the electrode's central portion has some light brown or gray substance on it. It could also have a black layer on the opposite side of the electrode. These deposits or fouling can stop high-voltage electrical current from crossing the gap of your spark plug, igniting an engine. If you believe that your spark plugs are at fault You can test them by taking them from their tube in the ignition coil. You can do this by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the correct procedure for your car to remove components that cover the spark 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 near the edge of the central electrode. If you don't see a spark you have discovered the problem. The next step is to go backwards through the ignition chain and test each part until the spark plugs stop functioning. It's important to remember that all systems wear down and break down over time and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the time it takes to repair and prevent an issue at the worst possible time.