How to Fix Car ignition lock repair services Problems

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

You can remove the steering column trim using special tools to access your ignition cylinder module. Check out your repair ignition lock cylinder manual to learn how to do it correctly.

1. Check the Switch

One of the most frequent ignition problems is a bad switch. It acts as an intermediary between two contacts, regulating when relays activate and deactivate. It is more likely to fail since it does not channel full power of devices such as the starter. The switch can still be damaged or corrosion-prone.

One sign of a bad switch is difficulty turning the key. This can be caused by a variety of things, including improperly inserting the key, or the mechanism wearing out over time. It's not common for people to mix keys with those of others. This can cause mechanical damage.

If the switch isn't functioning there are some things you can try before calling a locksmith. First, make sure the battery is fully charged and that there are no other electrical issues within the system. It is also important to examine the voltage of every component to see if they're providing enough power. After you've completed these steps, you'll be able to begin troubleshooting.

Luckily the ignition switch is pretty simple to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round piece of equipment that connects everything. To replace it, you'll need a flathead screwdriver, and something long enough to push the pin inside. This can be anything from an artist's brush to a Kabob skewer. However, you should stay clear of anything that is brittle and break within the hole.

Remove any trimming pieces that cover the area around the switch when you're ready to get started. After this take off and loosen any screws that are holding the switch in place then gently remove it. Depending on the model, you might also need to disconnect any wires that connect to it. Find out how to do it in the manual of your vehicle.

If the ignition switch isn't functioning it is recommended to replace it by professionals. Replacing it can involve disabling the steering column, which may trigger unintentional airbag deployment if done improperly. Therefore, it's best to have your local locksmith handle this for you.

2. Verify the Wire

Your car ignition switch may not start if you cannot turn the key or if it won't start. This could be due to any variety of components in the ignition key replacement system. Understanding how the ignition system functions will help you identify problems and make the necessary repairs.

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

You can use a voltage meter to quickly test the ignition switch or ignition coil. The voltmeter should be reading around 12.6 volts when the ignition switch is in the running position. If the voltage falls below that, it means there's an open circuit in the system. This could be the solenoid, battery or the ignition coil.

Remove the electrical connector so that it doesn't interfere with the test. Set the voltmeter in the resistance or continuity modes and connect one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal on the battery. If the voltmeter shows "open" or fails to detect any voltage, it is recommended to replace the switch.

Use a new ignition key and a high-quality ignition cylinder when replacing the switch to ensure that your vehicle runs and starts properly. Also, when you replace the ignition switch, you must be cautious not to touch the ignition cylinder pins with your tools or they'll get stuck and the engine will not start. In certain vehicles, you'll need remove the steering column and gear selector to access the ignition cylinder. This isn't easy and shouldn't be done unless you have an owner's manual that states it's safe to do this. If you don't then you could cause severe damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.

3. Check the Cylinder

If you've worked your way through the wiring, battery and ignition switch but can't get your car to start, it could be time to examine the cylinder. The cylinder is the component that holds the key. It is mechanically attached to the steering lock so that a would-be burglar can't drive the car without it.

You might be noticing that your key does not turn if the cylinder has worn out. The pins inside the cylinder can get stuck as they adjust to the shape of your key. This can cause your vehicle Locksmith to not start. The cylinder may also be loose. Tapping it with the tackhammer can help. Be careful not to mix with the springs and ensure that your key is properly inserted.

If you are required to move the key before it will begin, it is a sign that your cylinder has been damaged. This is a red flag and should be corrected immediately, as it will only get worse over time.

To test the cylinder, you'll need to unplug your battery, and then remove the cover on your steering wheel until you are able to access the ignition module. You should then be able to remove the old ignition switch as well as the metal ignition cylinder. If you don't have an extra ignition switch lying around, it's that you could take your original ignition switch and the cylinder to a locksmith in order to reuse them as long as they are in good condition. 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. Make sure you check the Spark Plugs

The spark plug is the final link in your ignition chain. If it fails it will stop the engine from running. It could be that your car will not start at all, or it will run poorly. In either case, it's likely that one or more things are hindering or preventing electricity from jumping across spark plug gaps, which in turn ignites the mixture of fuel and air within your engine.

Before you begin working on your spark plugs, make sure you're working on a safe surface, using gloves and tools that are protected to prevent getting struck. Spark plugs can be very hot and could cause serious injuries if touched with bare hands.

There may be a slight gray or brown residue on the top of the electrode if a spark plug is bad. The electrode may also have a dark layer. The deposits or fouling may hinder high-voltage electrical currents from crossing the gap of the spark plug and starting an engine.

If you believe that your spark plugs are at fault you can test them by taking the plugs from their tube in the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil as well as the plug wire. After that, you'll need to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle to remove the components that cover the plugs. After removing the plugs, place them on a surface that is grounded, and start the engine. If they are good you will see a bright blue spark crossing the gap between the tip of the central electrode.

If you don't detect 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 stop working. It is important to keep in mind that all systems wear out and break over time and this is particularly the case with ignition systems. Routine maintenance can help to slow down the process and prevent major problems at the worst time.