How to fix car ignition; cheaperseeker.com, Switch ProblemsThere are a myriad of reasons your car may run and start but the ignition fails to turn on the spark plugs. Some are simple and inexpensive to fix, while others require specialized equipment and assistance of a mechanic.
The first step is to lubricate the socket of the key. You can use graphite powder or a silicon spray. Also, make sure the ignition cylinder is free of any obstructions and loose springs.
Battery
If your car won't start it could be because your battery is dead. This is a common problem that can be fixed by a jump or charging the battery. If this does not solve the problem, it is likely that your ignition switch is not working properly. This component is responsible for transferring power from the battery to other electrical components such as the starter motor as well as the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is damaged it won't allow current to pass through and the engine will not start.
The battery is the main source of electrical energy in your vehicle. The battery is a black box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals at the top. The terminals can be corrosion-prone, which can stop the battery from supplying electricity to the rest of the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery, you can use a wire bristle to remove any corrosion. You can also use a baking soda solution to help clean the terminals.
Your car battery may also be nearing the end of its life and requires replacement. A new battery will provide the correct voltage to your vehicle's spark plugs. This is necessary for a properly functioning engine.
The ignition coil converts low voltage from your battery into high voltage to spark the spark plugs in your car and start the engine. If the ignition coil is faulty, it won't be able to spark the plugs, and the engine won't start. The ignition coil can be tested by examining the engine for a spark or turning the key to check whether it is turning.
You may have to replace the starter motor as well. If you hear a grinding sound when you turn on your ignition it is a sign that the starter bearings are wearing out. This can be a costly repair therefore it is recommended to replace the starter motor as soon as possible if you notice any signs of wear and tear. The starter motor can be replaced by replacing a few bolts and components.
Alternator
The alternator charges your battery and also powers the electrical components of your vehicle while the engine is running. Test the battery first if you suspect that your alternator is failing. This will allow you to determine if the alternator is causing the battery to drain or your battery is old and needs to be replaced.
While the vehicle is in idle the alternator is able to supply power to the dash lights and radio. It also provides power to the windshield wipers, the power windows, the electric steering, the heated seats and the power windows. A voltmeter can be used to determine the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery has less than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged right away. A low or dead batteries will also stop the starter from turning the engine on and may require additional jumper cables to begin your vehicle.
Before you begin removing the alternator, make sure the ignition is off and all doors are locked. Disconnect the negative cable and secure it. Wear safety gear. Refer to a vehicle specific repair manual to learn how to access the alternator and any other components you'll need to remove.
After you've removed your belt, if the vehicle is equipped with one remove the warning light wire from the side of the alternator. This will usually connect directly to the alternator's terminal that's labeled either WL or IND. Some vehicles have a separate relay to perform this function. If the warning light doesn't blink, you may think about a different cause.
The alternator is a crucial component in your vehicle, and you should examine it regularly for signs of problems. While you could perform some of the checks yourself, it's best to bring your vehicle into Les Schwab for a no-cost inspection and expert advice. Our technicians can check for corrosion on your battery posts, battery (+ and +), fuses, relays and voltage output as well as cold starting amps and more.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential component of the ignition system. It rotates the engine to allow air to be sucked into it which will ignite the fuel. If your car won't start, it's usually due to a problem with the starter motor. There are a variety of methods of troubleshooting that can help you diagnose and fix the issue.
When you turn on your vehicle's ignition, a switch in the starter turns on the pinion gear, which fits into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear is then turned the flywheel, which then begins the engine. The gear retracts when you release the key to avoid damage.
There are many things that can be wrong in 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 faulty starter motor can sound like a dead phone battery. It can make a clicking sound as it attempts to turn the engine over.
The charge level and the terminals of the battery will be examined by a mechanic when the starter motor fails to work. If the battery has corrosion or is not functioning properly it needs to be charged or replaced.
Depending on how serious the issue is, a mechanic could also test the solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid is a large magnetic switch that delivers a rush of power from the thick battery cables to the starter. This switch connects the thick cable from the battery to the windings in the starter which turns the motor. It also pushes a rod to actuate an engaging fork which pushes the pinion to automatically engage with flywheel.
Another option is to bypass the ignition switch by using the jumper wire. This is a temporary fix and you shouldn't try it unless you're certain of the procedure. You'll need to take care to route 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 keys into the car. This will allow electrical flow to your starter and to start the engine, but it isn't immune to wear and tear as other parts of your car ignition lock. The switch may also get stuck in its slot or get locked. You should check for problems frequently to be able to act before the car won't start.
It could be locked if the key is difficult to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition. This issue is common in vehicles because of a lack grease. Using a graphite or silicone-based grease on the pin that releases the key could help. Spray some lubricant on the ignition, then move the key. If it's stuck you can try using a hacksaw or piler blade.
A problem with the ignition can also lead to other problems. The anti-theft system might stop working, or the starter motor may not crank when you put in the key. It could also cause other functions to lose power or not work at all.
A failing ignition can also cause additional wear and tear to other parts. If you have keys that have multiple items or a heavy one, this can put strain on the ignition switch and accelerate wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch.
It is important to test the new ignition switch prior to reassembling other parts and the steering column. Make sure the replacement is working and that the engine starts without issues. It is also important to confirm that the new ignition switch is compatible with your vehicle's make and model. It could be worth it to have a dealership install the ignition switch for you if you are not confident about your ability to do so. They will also test the replacement and install any other parts that need to be connected or replaced.