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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems The car won't begin to start until the ignition switch sends the electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time can cause the switch to malfunction. Utilizing specialized tools, you are able to remove the trim on your steering column and gain access to the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it right. 1. Make sure you check the Switch A defective switch is among the most frequent ignition problems. It functions as an intermediary between two contacts, regulating the relays' activation and deactivation. Since it doesn't harness the full power of devices such as the starter, it's a less powerful component that is less likely to fail. However it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or corrosion-prone. One sign of a bad switch is the difficulty in turning the key. This can be caused by a variety of things such as incorrectly inserting the key or wearing out the mechanism over time. It's also common for people to misplace their car keys with another's, which could lead to mechanical damage. If the switch isn't functioning there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, you must ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no electrical issues within the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of each component to ensure they are supplying enough power. After you've completed the above steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting. The ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver and something long enough to push the pin into. This can be anything from an artist's brush to a Kabob skewer, but you should avoid using any brittle material that could break inside the hole. If you're ready for the job, you'll need to take away any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After you've removed the trim pieces take off any screws that hold the switch in place. Then, carefully take it off. Depending on the model you may need to disconnect the cables that connect to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own and model, it will show you exactly how to do it. If the ignition switch isn't functioning it's recommended to have it replaced by an expert. It's difficult to replace the ignition switch without removing the steering column. This could result in an accidental airbag deployment if you do it incorrectly. It's best to allow your locksmith to handle this. 2. Check the Wiring Your car may not start if you cannot turn the key or it won't start. This could be due a number components in the ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system works so that you can pinpoint problems and make the right repairs. The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch which is operated by a key. It has four positions: off run, accessory, and “lock.” If the switch is locked (which is usually indicated by an red light) the ignition circuit is activated and it is impossible to start your car. To determine whether the ignition switch damaged or the ignition coil is bad, you need to do a quick electrical test with a voltage meter. If the ignition switch is running and the voltmeter is reading around 12.6, If the voltage falls below that level, it's a sign there's an open circuit somewhere in the system. This could be a solenoid, battery or the ignition coil. Remove the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure no other components interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter to the resistance or continuity modes and then place one lead on one of the terminals of the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage gauge shows “open” or does not register any voltage it's time to replace the switch. When changing car ignition barrel replacement , make sure to use a new ignition cylinder and a top quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. When replacing the switch, ensure not to strike the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and your engine will not run. In some vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and the gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This can be difficult and is not recommended unless you have an owner's manual that states it's safe to do so. Otherwise severe damage to the steering column or shifting mechanism is possible. 3. Check the Cylinder If you've tried the battery, the wiring and the ignition switch, but you are still unable to get your car started It could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the component which holds the key and is mechanically connected to the steering lock to ensure that burglars won't be able to drive the car without it. You may be noticing that your key does not turn if the cylinder has worn out. Sometimes, the pins in the cylinder get stuck when they adjust to the shape of your key, which can cause your car to not start. Alternatively, the cylinder may be loose however a tap using a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Be careful not to jumble the springs within and make sure that your key is properly installed prior to tapping. Another indication that your cylinder is failing is when you have to jiggle the key and try different positions before it begins. This is a negative sign and must be addressed immediately because it will get worse with time. To examine the cylinder you'll need to unplug your battery, and then remove the cover around your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. You'll then be able pull out the old ignition switch as well as the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able take your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to locksmiths for reuse as long they're in good shape. After replacing the ignition switch and cylinder ensure that you connect the wiring to secure it, then reattach the panels and covers that were removed. 4. Check the Spark Plugs The spark plug is the last link in your ignition chain. The engine will not start when the spark plug is broken. This can take the form of your car not starting at all, or it may start but run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one or more factors are hindering or blocking electrical current from crossing spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the fuel mixture and air in your engine. Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure that you work on a level surface and using gloves and tools that are protected to avoid getting zapped. Spark plugs can get very hot and cause serious injuries if they are handled with hands that are not protected. You might notice a light gray or brown fleck on the tip of the electrode if the spark plug is damaged. The electrode could also have an opaque coating. These deposits or a build-up of fouling could hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap between your spark plug, igniting an engine. If you suspect that your spark plugs are to blame, you can test them by removing the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil and the plug wire. Then, you will need to follow the correct procedure for your car to remove the components that surround the plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded and start the engine. If they are working you should see a bright blue spark on the tip of central electrode. If you don't see a spark, you have found the issue. The next step is to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each part until the spark plugs aren't working. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break down with time and this is particularly true of ignition systems. However, regular maintenance can help to slow down the process and avoid a major headache at the worst time.