How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems
There are a myriad of reasons your car might run and start but the ignition fails to turn on the spark plugs. Some are simple and cheap to fix, whereas others require specialized equipment and the help of a mechanic.
The first step is to lubricate the socket that holds the key. You can apply graphite powder or silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder has no obstructions or loose springs.
Battery
If your car isn't starting it could be because your battery is dead. This is a frequent issue which can be fixed with a battery charge or an electrical jump. If this does not solve the issue, it's possible that the ignition switch is defective. This component is responsible for transferring battery power to other electrical components like the starter motor and ignition coil. If the ignition switch is defective it won't allow current to be passed through, and the engine will not start.
The battery is the source of all the electrical energy in your car. It's a black, insulated box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals that are on the top. The terminals could be corroded and stop the battery from supplying electricity to the rest of the vehicle. Clean the battery terminals by disconnecting the battery and using a wire brush to get rid of any corrosion. You can also clean the terminals with a baking soda solution.
Your car's battery could be nearing the end of its life and will require replacement. A new battery will provide the proper voltage to your vehicle’s spark plugs. This is crucial for a functioning engine.
The ignition coil converts the battery's low voltage into high voltage to spark the spark plugs in your car, and to start the engine. If the ignition coil is faulty and is not able to spark the plugs and the engine won't start. The ignition coil can be tested by checking the engine for sparks or turning the key to determine whether it is turning.
You might also have to replace your starter motor. If you hear a grinding noise when you turn on your ignition, it means that the bearings inside the starter are starting to wear out. It could be a costly repair, so it's best to replace your starter motor as soon as you notice signs of wear. Changing the starter motor is a relatively simple process that requires the replacement of the bolts and a few components.
Alternator
The alternator is the one that charges your battery and powers the electrical components of your car while the engine is running. Test the battery first if you suspect your alternator is malfunctioning. This will allow you to determine if the alternator is causing your battery to deplete or if the battery is just old and requires to be replaced.
The alternator in your car also provides power for your dashboard lights, windshield wipers, power windows, electric steering heated seats, and your radio even when the vehicle is idling. You can use a voltage meter to test your battery and alternator for proper voltage levels. If your battery has less than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged right away. A dead or weak battery will also prevent the starter motor from cranking the engine over and will require more jumper cables to get your car started.
Before you begin dismantling the alternator, ensure the ignition is off and all the doors are locked. Unplug the negative cable and store it safely. Wear safety gear. Refer to a vehicle specific repair manual for instructions on how to gain access to the alternator, as well as any other components you require to take off.
If your car has a warning light wire, you can remove it from the back of the generator following removing the belt. This wire will usually connect directly to an alternator's terminal that's marked as WL or IND. Certain vehicles have an additional relay that performs this function. If your warning light doesn't appear, it is likely that you have a different issue.
G28 should check regularly your alternator for any indications of malfunction. You can do certain of these tests yourself, but it is best to bring your vehicle to Les Schwab so they can look it over and offer you advice from a professional. Our highly trained technicians can test your battery, battery posts (the terminals marked + and -) for corrosion, fuses, relays, voltage output, cold cranking amps and more to determine what the problem is.
Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential element of the ignition system. It turns the engine over to allow air to be drawn in which will ignite the fuel. When your car won't start it's usually caused by a problem with the starter motor. There are several ways to troubleshoot that can help you diagnose the issue and fix it.
When you turn on your vehicle's ignition key, a switch inside the starter engages a pinion-gear that fits into grooves of the flywheel. The pinion gear turns the flywheel which initiates the engine. When you release the key the pinion gear retracts, and disconnects from the flywheel to prevent damage.
The starter motor may be affected by a variety of factors, including a mechanical problem (such as teeth not lining up on the flywheel) or dead cells. A malfunctioning starter motor may sound like a dead phone battery. It will make a clicking sound when it tries but cannot turn the engine around.
The state of charge and the terminals of the battery will be checked by a mechanic when the starter motor fails to work. If the battery is damaged or is depleted, it will need to charged or replaced.
Depending on the degree of the problem The mechanic can also test the solenoid on the starter using a multimeter. The solenoid is a large magnetic switch that sends the power of the battery cables that are thick to the starter. This switch connects the thick cable from the battery to the windings in the starter which turns the motor. It also pulls the rod to activate an engaging fork which pushes the pinion to automatically engage with flywheel.
Another option is to disable the ignition switch with the jumper wire. This is a temporary option, and it isn't recommended unless you are able to do it correctly. 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 key into the car. The system uses this to start the engine and send an electrical current to the starter. However, it is not immune to wear like other components of the car. The switch can also become stuck in its slot or locked. You should check for problems regularly so you can act before the car won't start.
If your key seems to struggle to turn, or becomes stuck in the ignition, it might have been locked. This is a typical issue for many vehicles and happens due to a lack lubrication. You can make use of a graphite or silicone-based oil to lubricate your release pin. Spray some lubricant onto the ignition and then turn the key. If it's stuck then try using a piler or hacksaw blade.
A problem with the ignition could cause other issues. The anti-theft function may stop working or the starter motor could not turn on when you insert the key. This can also cause the auxiliary functions to stop working or lose power.
A malfunctioning ignition could cause extra wear and tear to other parts. If you own keys with many items, or a bulky one, this can stress the ignition switch and increase wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch.
It's important to test the new ignition switch prior to assembling the other components and the steering column. Make sure the replacement is working and that the engine starts without issues. Verify the compatibility of the new ignition switch with your vehicle model and make. It might be worth it to get a dealership to install the ignition switch for you, if you aren't confident in your ability to do so. They can also test and connect any other parts or replace them.