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How to Fix Car Ignition Problems The car won't begin to start until the ignition switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter motor. Over time wear and tear can cause the switch to fail. You can remove the trim on your steering column using specially designed tools to access the ignition cylinder module. Check the repair manual to get guidance on how to do this correctly. 1. Make sure to check the Switch A malfunctioning switch is one of the most common ignition issues. It acts as a bridge between two contacts, regulating when relays activate and deactivate. Since it doesn't harness the full power of devices like the starter, it's a less powerful component that's less likely to fail. However it's still possible for the switch to get damaged or corroded. One sign of a damaged switch is a difficulty turning the key. This can be due to a number of factors that include not inserting the correct key correctly or deteriorating the mechanism over time. It's not uncommon to see people mix keys with keys from someone else's. This could cause mechanical damage. If the switch isn't functioning there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. You'll first want to ensure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no electrical issues within the system. You should also check the voltage of every component to ensure they are sufficient power. After you've completed these steps, it's now time to start troubleshooting. The ignition switch is easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, which is a round piece of equipment that holds everything together. It's necessary to use a flathead and a piece of material 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 anything brittle that could break inside the hole. When you're ready to do the job, you'll need to take away any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. After this take off and loosen any screws that keep the switch in place then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect any cables connected to it. You can learn how to do it in the manual of your vehicle. If the ignition switch isn't working, it's best to have it replaced by professionals. It's not easy to replace the ignition switch without disabling the steering column. This could result in an unintentional deployment of airbags when you don't do it correctly. For this reason, it's best to have the locksmith in your area handle this for you. 2. Check the Wiring Your car might not start if you are unable to turn the ignition key or it won't start. This could be due to any number components in the ignition system. It's important to understand how the ignition system functions to be able to spot issues and make the necessary repairs. The ignition switch is an electrical switch with multiple poles that is operated by the key. It has four positions that are off run, accessory, and “lock.” If the switch is locked (which is usually indicated by a red light), the ignition circuit is in operation and it is impossible to start your car. To determine if the ignition switch is damaged or if the ignition coil is defective, you will have to conduct an electrical test using a voltmeter. When the ignition switch is running and the voltmeter is reading approximately 12.6, If the voltage falls below that, there is an open circuit within the system. This could be a battery, solenoid or the ignition coil. Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure there are no other components that could interfere with the test. Then set the voltmeter to the continuity or resistance mode and put one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should go to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltage gauge shows “open” or doesn't show any voltage, it's time to replace the switch. Use a brand new ignition key and a top-quality ignition cylinder when you replace the switch to ensure that your vehicle runs and starts properly. When you replace the switch, ensure not to hit the pins of the ignition cylinder with your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and your engine won't run. In certain vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and gear selector to get access to the ignition cylinder. This can be a challenge and is not recommended unless you have an owner's manual that indicates it's safe to do this. Otherwise serious damage to the steering column and shifting mechanism is likely. 3. Check does a new ignition switch require a new key If you've gone through the battery, wiring and ignition switch but can't get your car to start, it could be time to examine the cylinder. It's the component that holds your key and is mechanically connected to the steering wheel lock so a would-be thief can't control the car without a key. If your cylinder is beginning to wear out, you could be noticing that your key isn't able to turn. Sometimes, the pins within the cylinder get stuck when they adjust to the shape of the key, which may cause your car to not start. The cylinder could also be shaky however a tap using the tack hammer may aid in releasing it. Be careful not mixing the springs, and ensure that your key is correctly inserted. Another indication that your cylinder is failing is when you have to jiggle the key and test it in various positions before it begins. This is a negative sign and must be addressed immediately, since it will only worsen over time. To check the cylinder you'll need to take off the cover for the steering wheel and disconnect the battery. Then, you'll be able pull out the old ignition switch as well as the cylinder for ignition made of metal. If you don't have a spare switch, you may be able to bring your original ignition cylinder and switch to a locksmith for reuse as long they're in good shape. After replacing the switch and cylinder, make sure you connect the wiring harness and secure it and reattach any covers, or panels you removed. 4. Check the Spark Plugs The spark plug is your ignition system's last link. The engine cannot start when the spark plug is broken. This could take the form of your car not starting at all, or it could start but then run poorly. In either of these scenarios, it's likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which ignites the fuel mixture and air within your engine. Before you begin working on your spark plugs, be sure you're working on a safe surface and employing protective gloves and tools to keep from being zapped. Spark plugs are hot and can cause serious injury if you touch them with bare skin. If a spark plug goes bad, you might observe that the edge of the central electrode has some light brown or gray substance on it. The electrode could also be covered with a dark coating. These deposits or fouling can hinder high-voltage electrical currents from jumping across the gap of your spark plug and igniting an engine. If you suspect that your spark plugs are at fault You can test them by removing them from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. Then, you'll be required to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle in order to remove the components that cover the plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded and begin the engine. If they're working you should be able to see a strong blue spark across the gap between the tip of the central electrode. If you don't see a spark, you've identified the problem. The next step is to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each component until the spark plugs aren't working. It's important to remember that all systems wear down and break down over time and this is particularly applicable to ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to reduce the wear and tear and prevent a major headache at the worst time.