How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
If your car starts and runs, but the ignition switch won't turn over the spark plugs, there may be a myriad of reasons for this. Some are simple and cheap to repair, while others require specialized equipment and assistance of an expert mechanic.
First, lubricate the socket of the key. You can use graphite powder or a silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder is clean and has no loose springs or obstructions.
Battery
It could be that your battery is dying if your car isn't starting. This is a frequent issue that can be resolved by a battery charge or the jump. If this does not solve the problem, it is likely that your ignition switch is bad. The switch is the one that supplies battery power to the other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is not working properly it won't allow current to be passed through, and the engine won't start.
The battery is the main source of the electrical energy in your car. The battery is a black, slender box that has positive (+) and negative (-) terminals at the top. The terminals could get corroded, preventing the battery from providing power to the rest the vehicle. Clean the battery's terminals by disconnection of the battery and using a wire brush to get rid of any corrosion. You can also clean the terminals using a baking soda solution.
It's also possible that your car's battery has just reached the end of its lifespan and requires replacement. A new battery will provide the proper voltage to your vehicle’s spark plugs. This is necessary to ensure that your engine is running properly.
The ignition coil is responsible for turning low voltage from the battery into high voltage that will spark the spark plugs of your car to start the engine. If the ignition coil is faulty and is not capable of sparking the plugs, and the engine won't start. You can test the ignition coil by looking for a spark in the engine or turning the key to see if the engine turns over.
You may also need to replace the starter motor. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn the key in your ignition, it means that the bearings inside the starter are beginning to wear out. It can be an expensive repair, so it is recommended to replace your starter motor as soon as you notice signs of wear. Changing the starter motor is a relatively simple process that involves replacing the bolts and a few components.
Alternator
The alternator is an instrument that charges your battery when your engine is running. It also is the power source for your car's electrical components. If you suspect that there is a issue with your alternator, you should first test the battery. This will enable you to determine if the alternator is draining the battery, or if your battery is old and requires replacement.
Your car's alternator also supplies power for the dashboard lights, windshield wipers as well as power windows, electric steering as well as heated seats and your radio while the car is running. A voltmeter can be used to check the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery is less than 6 volts, it should be replaced or charged immediately. A dead or weak battery can also stop the starter motor from cranking the engine, and will require more jumper cables to get your car started.
Before you begin dismantling the alternator, ensure that the ignition is turned off and all the doors are locked. It is also important to disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away somewhere safe and put on the safety equipment. Consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle to get instructions on how to remove the alternator, or any other components.
After you've removed the belt, if your car has one take off the warning light wire from the side of the alternator. It will typically connect directly to a terminal on the alternator that's labeled either WL or IND. Certain vehicles, however, have a separate relay to perform this purpose. If your warning light does not come on, you should suspect a different problem.
You should check regularly your alternator for any indications of a malfunction. You can perform some of these checks yourself, but it is best to bring your car into Les Schwab so that they can inspect it and offer you advice from a professional. Our trained technicians can test your battery posts, battery (the terminals that are marked + and -) for corrosion relays, fuses and voltage output, cold cranking amps and more to determine what the problem is.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is a crucial component of the ignition system. It turns the engine to allow air to be sucked in and ignite the fuel. It is quite common that the starter motor will be at fault when your car isn't turning over. There are a few ways to troubleshoot that can help you identify the issue and fix it.
When you turn on your vehicle's ignition key, a switch in the starter turns on a pinion-gear that is fitted into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear then turns the flywheel, which in turn begins the engine. The gear retracts when you release the key to avoid damage.
There are a variety of 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 meshing with the flywheel or pinion gear) or a dead battery. A malfunctioning starter motor may sound like a dead cell phone battery. It will make a clicking sound as it tries but cannot turn the engine around.
The state of charge and the terminals of the battery will be checked by a mechanic if the starter motor doesn't work. If the battery is low or has corrosion on its terminals, it'll require charging or replaced.
Depending on how serious the problem is, the mechanic may test the solenoid by using a multimeter. The solenoid is a huge magnet switch, delivers an electric current from the long battery cables to the starter. This switch connects the thick cable from the battery to starter's windings that turn the motor. It also pushes the rod to activate an engaging fork, which causes the pinion to automatically engage the flywheel.
A jumper wire can be used to disable the ignition. This is an option for a short-term fix and you shouldn't attempt it unless you are sure how to do it. You'll need to carefully route the jumper wire through the battery terminals, and ensure that the switch is set to the "Start" position.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is where you insert your car keys. The system uses this to start the engine and to send electrical current to the starter. However it isn't immune to wear like other parts of the car. The switch could also become stuck in its slot or be locked. It is important to check it regularly for issues so you can take action prior to the car not starting.
If your key seems to struggle to turn or is stuck in the ignition, it might have been locked. This problem is common in vehicles due to a lack oil lubrication. Using a silicone or graphite-based lubricant on the release pin can aid. Spray some lubricant into the ignition and then turn the key. If it's stuck you can try using a hacksaw or piler blade.
A problem with the ignition could cause other issues. The anti-theft system may stop working, or the starter motor might not crank when you put the key in. It can also cause auxiliary functions to stop working or cease to function at all.
A damaged ignition may cause extra wear and tear to other components. For instance, if have a heavy keychain or a variety of items on your keychain it could put strain on the ignition switch when you plug it in and accelerate the wear and tear on its internal components. car ignition replacement near me can also impact the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch.
It is crucial to test the replacement ignition switch before reassembling other components and the steering column. Make sure that the switch is working and that the engine starts without any issues. Make sure that the new ignition switch with your vehicle model and make. If you're unsure of your ability to install an ignition switch that is new you might consider employing a dealership service shop to do it for you. They can also test and connect any other components or even replace them.