How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems

If your vehicle starts and runs but the ignition switch won't switch over the spark plugs, there may be a myriad of reasons. Some are easy and cheap to fix, others require specialized tools and help from a mechanic.

First, you need to lubricate the socket that holds the key. You can make use of graphite powder or 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 dying if your vehicle won't start. This is a common issue which can be fixed with either charging your battery or an electrical jump. If this does not fix the issue your ignition switch could be defective. This component is responsible for transferring battery power to other electrical components such as the starter motor as well as the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is faulty it will not allow current to flow through it and the engine won't start.

The battery is the primary source of electrical energy in your vehicle. It's a black, insulated box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals that are on the top. The terminals can be corroded and stop the battery from supplying power to the rest of 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 clean the terminals using baking soda as a solution.

Your car's battery could be at the end of its life and will require replacement. A new battery will provide the correct voltage to the spark plugs in your vehicle, which is required to ensure a functioning engine.

The ignition coil converts the battery's low voltage into high voltage that causes the spark plugs of your car ignition locked, and to start the engine. If the ignition coil is faulty, it won't be capable of sparking the plugs, and your engine will not start. You can test the ignition coil by checking for a spark in the engine or turning the key and seeing whether the engine is turning.

You may also need to replace your starter motor. If you hear a grinding noise when you turn on your ignition, it's a sign that the bearings in the starter are starting to wear out. It can be an expensive repair, so it's best to replace your starter motor immediately if you begin to notice signs of wear. It's a relatively simple process that requires replacing some bolts and parts.

Alternator

The alternator charges your battery and also powers the electrical components of your car while the engine is running. If you suspect a problem with your alternator, you should test the battery first. This will enable you to determine if your alternator is draining the battery or if the battery is old and requires replacement.

When the vehicle is idle, the alternator provides power to the dash lights as well as the radio. It also powers the windshield wipers, the power windows, the electric steering, the heated seats, and the power windows. A voltmeter is a tool to test the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery is below 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 over the engine and may require additional jumper cables to begin your vehicle.

Before you begin dismantling the alternator, switch off the ignition and secure all doors. Remove the negative cable and store it in a safe place. Wear safety gear. Check out a repair manual that is specific to your vehicle to get instructions on how to remove the alternator, or any other parts.

After you've removed your belt, if your vehicle is equipped with one, disconnect the warning light wire from the back of the alternator. This wire will connect directly to an alternator terminal identified WL or IN. Certain vehicles have a separate relay to perform this function. If your warning light doesn't blink, it's likely to be an issue with your vehicle.

You should check regularly your alternator for indications of a malfunction. While you can perform some of the tests yourself, it's best to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab for a complimentary inspection and expert advice. Our technicians will test for corrosion on your battery, battery posts (+ and -) and relays, fuses, and voltage output and cold starting amps and much more.

Starter Motor

The starter motor is an essential component of the van ignition repair system. It is responsible for turning over the engine to suck into air, which is required to ignite the fuel. It is common for the starter motor to be at fault when your car won't turn over. There are several troubleshooting methods to help you determine the issue and fix it.

When you turn on your vehicle's ignition key, a switch within the starter engages a pinion-gear that fits into grooves of the flywheel. The pinion gear turns the flywheel, which starts the engine. The gear retracts when you remove the key, thereby preventing damage.

The starter motor may be affected by a variety of things, including mechanical problems (such as teeth that don't mesh on the flywheel) or a dead cell. A faulty starter motor can sound like a dead cell phone battery. It can make a clunk sound as it attempts to turn the engine around.

If the starter motor isn't functioning, one of the first things a mechanic would look at is the state of charge on the battery and its terminals. If the battery is damaged or is depleted it must be charged or replaced.

Depending on how severe the issue is, the mechanic may also test the solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid is a huge magnetic switch that delivers the power of the battery cables that are long and thick to the starter. This switch essentially connects the battery cable to windings within the starter that actually activate the electric motor, plus it pushes the rod, which turns an engaging fork which will then push the pinion gear to automatically engage with the flywheel.

Another option is to bypass the ignition switch with the jumper wire. This is only an interim solution that you should not try it unless you're certain of the procedure. You will need to carefully connect your jumper wires to the battery terminals, and make sure that the switch is in the "Start position".

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is where you insert your car keys. This allows the system to allow electrical flow to your starter and then start the engine, however it isn't immune to wear and tear as other car ignition locked components. The switch can also get stuck inside its slot or be locked. It is important to check for issues regularly to identify the problem before your car doesn't start.

It could be locked if your key is difficult to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition. This issue occurs in a variety of vehicles due to a lack lubrication. You can apply a graphite- or silicone-based grease to lubricate the release pin. Spray some lubricant onto the ignition, and then move the key. If it's stuck, use a piler or hacksaw blade to assist in moving it.

A problem with the ignition can lead to a number of other issues as well. The anti-theft device may stop working, or the starter motor may not turn on when you put the key in. It can also cause auxiliary functions to cease functioning or cease to function at all.

A malfunctioning ignition barrel replacement near me switch could also cause a lot of extra wear and tear on other components. For instance, if have a heavy keychain, or several items on your keychain, it can strain the ignition switch when you insert it in, and could increase the wear on its internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations can impact the materials and lubricants in the ignition switch.

It is important to test the replacement ignition switch before reassembling other components and the steering column. Be sure that the replacement ignition switch is working and that the engine starts smoothly. Double-check the compatibility of the new mobile ignition lock repair services switch with your car's model and make. It could be worth it to get a dealership to install the ignition switch for you if you aren't confident in your ability to install it. They can also test the replacement and install any other components that need to be connected or replaced.