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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems The car won't start until the switch sends an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time could cause the switch to malfunction. You can remove the trim on your steering column using special tools to gain access to your ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it correctly. 1. Check the Switch One of the most frequent ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It controls the time when relays are activated and deactivated by acting as a bridge. It is more likely to fail since it doesn't channel full power of devices such as the starter. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone. A defective switch is identified by a difficult time turning the key. This can be due to various reasons, including not inserting the correct key correctly or the mechanism being worn out over time. It's not common for people to confuse their keys with those of others. This could cause mechanical damage. If the switch isn't functioning there are a few things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you must ensure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues in the system. You should also examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are sufficient power. After you've completed these steps, it's time to start troubleshooting. Luckily the ignition switch is easy to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require an flathead screwdriver as well as something that is long enough to push the pin into. You can make use of anything from a paintbrush to kabob stick, but avoid anything that is brittle, as it can be broken into the hole. Remove auto locksmith ignition replacement that overhang the switch once you're ready to go. After that take off and loosen any screws that hold the switch in place, and then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you might be required to disconnect the wires that connect to it. If you have a manual for your vehicle it will explain exactly how to do it. If the ignition switch isn't working, it's best to have it replaced by an expert. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch, without disabling your steering column. This could result in an accidental airbag deployment if you do it incorrectly. This is why it's often best to have your local locksmith handle this for you. 2. Check the Wiring If you're unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car won't start, the issue could be related to any of the components in your car's ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions so that you can pinpoint issues and make the necessary repairs. The ignition switch is an electrical switch with multiple poles that is operated by a key. It has four positions: off, accessory, run and “lock.” If the switch is in the lock position (which usually has an indicator in red) the ignition circuit is active and it's not possible to start the engine. You can use a voltmeter quickly test the ignition switch and ignition coil. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage is below that, there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be at the solenoid, the battery or even the ignition coil itself. Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure no other components can interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity modes and connect one lead onto one of the terminals of the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage meter shows “open” or doesn't register any voltage then it's time to replace the switch. When you're changing the switch, make sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a good quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. 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 the engine won't start. In certain vehicles, you'll have to remove the steering column and the gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy, and it is not recommended until you have an owner's guideline that states it's safe. If you do not you could cause irreparable damage to your steering column and shift mechanism. 3. Check the Cylinder If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch, but cannot get your car to start, it could be time to check the cylinder. It's the part that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock so a would-be thief can't steer the car without a key. You may be noticing that your key does not turn if the cylinder has worn out. Sometimes, the pins inside the cylinder become stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which could cause your car not to start. Or, the cylinder might be loose and a tap using the small hammer from a tack can assist in releasing it. Just be careful not to crush the springs in the cylinder and ensure that your key is correctly installed prior to tapping. If you have to jiggle and move your key before it can start, this is another sign that your cylinder has been damaged. This is a sign of trouble and should be addressed immediately, as it can continue to get worse as time passes. To check the cylinder you must remove the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. You should then be able to remove the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have an additional ignition switch around, it's likely possible to take your original ignition switch and cylinder to a locksmith to reuse them, as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder make sure you connect the wiring harness, secure it in place and reattach any covers or panels you've removed. 4. Check Spark Plugs The spark plug is the final link in your ignition system chain. The engine cannot start if the spark plug breaks. It could be in the form of your car not running at all, or may start but not run well. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one of several factors are hindering or blocking the flow of electricity across spark plug gaps, which ignites the air and fuel mixture in your engine. Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure you're working on a safe surface, using gloves and tools that are protected to prevent getting zapped. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injury when you touch them with bare skin. You may notice a light brown or gray residue on the edge of the electrode when the spark plug is defective. The electrode could also be covered with a dark coating. These deposits or fouling can stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine. If you believe that your spark plugs could be at fault You can test them by removing them from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil from the plug wire, and following the correct procedure for your car to remove any components that are covering the spark plugs. Once you have removed the plugs you can place them on a grounded metal surface and then crank the engine. If they are good, you should see a strong blue spark extending across the gap between the tip of the central electrode. If you aren't seeing a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go backwards through your ignition chain and check each component until the spark plugs aren't working. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break over time and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. Regular maintenance can reduce the time it takes to repair and prevent major problems in the worst case.