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11 Methods To Totally Defeat Your Fix Car Ignition
How to Fix Car Ignition Problems

A car won't start unless the ignition switch is sending an electrical signal to the starter motor. Normal wear and tear over time could cause the switch malfunction.

Using specially designed tools, you can remove your steering column trim and access the ignition cylinder module. Consult does a new ignition switch require a new key for instructions on how to do this correctly.

1. Make sure to check the Switch

One of the most frequent ignition issues is a malfunctioning switch. It acts as an intermediary between two contacts, and controls when relays activate and deactivate. It is less likely to fail because it does not channel full power of devices such as the starter. However, it's still possible for the switch to be damaged or damaged or corroded.

A defective switch can be identified by a difficulty turning the key. This could be due to a variety of things such as improperly inserting the key, or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's also commonplace for people to misplace their keys to their car with those of another's, which could lead to mechanical damage.

Before calling a locksmith you can try a few things. You'll first want to ensure that the battery is fully charged and there are no electrical issues with the system. You should also check the voltage of every component to ensure that they are providing enough power. Once you've completed these steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.

Luckily, the ignition switch is simple to replace. It's connected to the ignition cylinder, which is a round module that connects everything. To replace it, you'll require a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to push the pin into. It could be anything from a paintbrush handle to a kabob skewer, but it is best to avoid any brittle material that could break inside the hole.

Remove any trim pieces that overhang the switch when you're ready to work. After taking off the trim pieces, remove any screws holding the switch in place. Then, gently pull it out. 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 it will explain exactly how to do this.

If the ignition switch isn't functioning it's recommended to have it replaced by a professional. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch, without disabling your steering column. This could lead to the unintentional deployment of airbags in the event that you don't do it correctly. It's best to allow your locksmith to handle this.

2. Check the Wiring

If you are unable to turn the key in the ignition or your car isn't starting, your issue could be related to any number of components of your vehicle's ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system works will help you identify problems and make the appropriate repairs.

The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that is turned by the key. It has four positions including off, accessory, run and "lock." If the switch is in the lock position (which typically has the red indicator) the ignition circuit is in operation and it's not possible to start the engine.

You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch and ignition coil. When the ignition switch is set to run, the voltmeter should show approximately 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that it indicates that there is an open circuit within the system. This could be at the battery, the solenoid or at the ignition coil itself.


Disconnect the electrical connector so that it does not interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and connect one lead onto one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltage meter reads "open" or doesn't register any voltage, it's time to replace the switch.

When you're replacing the switch, be sure to use a new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your car will start and run correctly. Also, when replacing the ignition switch, you must be careful not to hit the cylinder's pins on the ignition with your tools, or they'll get stuck and your engine won't start. In certain vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column and gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge, and it is not recommended until you have a vehicle's owner's manual that states it's safe. If you don't, it is possible to cause irreparable damage to your steering column and the shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you have tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch but still can't get your car to start, it may be time to check the cylinder. It's the part that holds your key, and is mechanically connected to the lock on the steering wheel so a would-be thief can't drive the car without the key.

If your cylinder has started to wear out, you might notice that the key won't turn. The pins of the cylinder may become stuck as they adjust to your key's shape. This can cause your vehicle to not start. Or, the cylinder might be loose and a tap using the small hammer from a tack can help to free it. Be careful not mixing the springs, and ensure that your key is correctly inserted.

Another sign that your cylinder is failing is if you have to jiggle the key and test it in various positions before it starts. This is a sign of trouble, and it should be corrected right away, since it will only get worse over time.

To examine the cylinder you'll need to disconnect your battery, and then remove the cover from your steering wheel until you're able to access the ignition module. The old ignition switch should be simple to take off, as will the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't own an extra switch, you might be able to bring your original ignition cylinder as well as switch to a locksmith for reuse as long as they're in good condition. After replacing the switch and cylinder ensure that you reconnect the wiring harness and secure it and reattach any covers, or panels you removed.

4. Check Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the last link in your ignition system chain. The engine won't start if the spark plug breaks. It could be that your car will not start at all or it will run poorly. In either case, it is likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing the flow of electricity across spark plug gaps, which ignites the mixture of fuel and air in your engine.

Be sure to wear gloves and protective tools before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury when touched with bare skin.

When a spark plug goes bad, you may observe that the edge of the central electrode is covered with a slight brown or gray substance on it. It may also have a black coating on the sides of the electrode. These deposits, or corrosion, can prevent high-voltage electricity from jumping across the spark plug gap and sparking your engine.

If you think that your spark plugs may be at fault, you can test them by removing them from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be accomplished by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. After that, you'll need to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle to take off the components that are covering the plugs. Once you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a metal surface that is grounded and turn the engine. If they're good you should be able to see a strong blue spark across the gap at the tip of the central electrode.

If you don't see a spark, you've found the issue. The next step is to go back through the ignition system chain, testing each component until you find out what's stopping the spark plugs from doing their job. All systems wear out and eventually fail and this is especially applicable to ignition systems. That said, routine maintenance can reduce the wear and tear and prevent a major headache at the worst possible time.

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