![[PukiWiki]](image/pukiwiki.png "[PukiWiki]")
|
How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems There are a variety of reasons your car might run and start but the ignition fails to turn on the spark plugs. Some are simple and inexpensive to repair, while others require specialized equipment and the help of an expert mechanic. First, you need to lubricate the socket that holds the key. You can use graphite powder, or a silicon aerosol spray. Also, ensure that the ignition cylinder is free of obstructions and loose springs. Battery If your car doesn't start it could be because your battery is dead. This is a common issue that can be solved with charging the battery or making the jump. If this doesn't fix the issue your ignition switch could be bad. This component is responsible for transferring power from the battery to other electrical components like the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is damaged, it won't allow current to pass through and the engine will not start. The battery is the source of all the electrical energy that is used in your vehicle. It's a black box with positive (+) and negative (-) terminals that are on the top. The terminals can be damaged, preventing the battery from providing power to the rest the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery, you can employ a wire bristle get rid of any corrosion. You can also apply a baking soda solution to clean the terminals. The battery in your car could be at the end of its lifespan and will require replacement. A new battery will supply the proper voltage to the spark plugs in your vehicle which is necessary for a properly working engine. The ignition coil is responsible for changing low voltage from the battery into high voltage that can ignite the spark plugs of your car to start the engine. If the ignition coil is damaged it won't be able spark the plugs. The engine will not start. The ignition coil can be inspected by checking the engine for a spark or turning the key to check whether it is turning. It is also possible to replace your starter motor. If you hear a grinding sound as you turn on your ignition it means that the starter bearings are deteriorating. It can be an expensive repair so it is best to replace your starter motor when you begin to notice signs of wear. Changing the starter motor is an easy task that requires the replacement of the bolts and a few components. The alternator in your car also provides the power to the windshield wipers, dash lights as well as electric steering, power windows as well as heated seats and your radio while the vehicle is idle. You can use a voltmeter test your battery and alternator for proper voltage levels. If your battery's voltage is lower than 6 volts, it should be replaced or charged right away. A low or dead batteries can also stop the starter from turning over the engine, and will require additional jumper cables in order to start your vehicle. Before you begin to dismantle the Alternator, turn off the ignition and secure all doors. Remove the negative cable and secure it. Wear safety gear. Consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for instructions on how to remove the alternator or any other component. After you've removed your belt, if the vehicle has one take off the warning light wire from the side of the alternator. This wire will connect directly to an alternator connector that is marked WL or IN. Some vehicles, however have a separate relay to perform this purpose. If your warning light does not come on, you should suspect a different problem. The alternator is a vital part of your vehicle, and you should inspect it regularly for signs of problems. You can perform certain of these tests yourself, but it's best to bring your car to Les Schwab so they can examine it and offer you advice from a professional. Our certified technicians will examine your battery posts, battery (the terminals marked + and -) for corrosion, fuses, relays and voltage output and cold cranking amps, and more to determine what the issue is. Starter Motor The starter motor is an essential component of the ignition system. It turns the engine over so that air can be sucked in and ignite the fuel. It is common for the starter motor to be at fault when your car doesn't turn. There are many troubleshooting techniques that can be used to help you diagnose and fix the problem. When you turn the key in the ignition of your vehicle, a switch on the starter turns on an pinion gear that is fitted into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear is then turned the flywheel, which in turn starts the engine. The gear retracts when you release the key to prevent damage. There are many things that can be wrong with the starter motor, including an electrical failure in the internal windings, a mechanical issue (such as teeth no longer meshing with the pinion gear or flywheel) or a dead battery. A faulty starter motor can sound like a dead phone battery. It will make a clunk sound as it tries but cannot turn the engine. The charge level and the terminals of the battery will be checked by a mechanic if the starter motor doesn't work. If the battery is low or has corrosion on its terminals, it will need to be charged or replaced. Depending on how severe the problem is, the mechanic may also test the solenoid using a multimeter. The solenoid is a huge magnet switch, transmits a surge of power from the long battery cables to the starter. This switch connects the thick cable from the battery to starter's windings which turns the motor. It also pushes the rod to activate an engaging fork which pushes the pinion to automatically engage with flywheel. Another option is to bypass the ignition switch with a jumper wire. This is only a temporary solution, and it isn't recommended unless you're able to perform it correctly. You'll need to carefully route the jumper wire to battery terminals and be sure the switch is set to the "Start" position. Ignition Switch The ignition switch is the place where you insert your car keys. This will allow electrical flow to the starter and start up the engine, however it isn't immune to wear and tear as other parts of your car. The switch can also become stuck in its slot or even locked. You should check for problems regularly to identify the problem before your car doesn't start. It is possible that your key was locked if the key is difficult to turn or becomes stuck in the ignition. This is a common issue for a variety of vehicles and occurs because of a lack of lubrication. Using a silicone or graphite-based oil on the release pin can aid. Spray some lubricant into the ignition and then turn the key. If it's stuck then try using a hacksaw or piler blade. A problem with the ignition can cause a variety of other issues too. The anti-theft function may not function or the starter motor may not turn on when you insert the key. It could also cause other functions to cease functioning or cease to function altogether. A failing ignition can also cause additional wear and tear on other components. If you own keys that have multiple items, or a bulky one, it can put strain on the ignition switch and increase wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature changes can also affect the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch. Once you have a replacement ignition switch, you need to test it prior to assembling the steering column and other parts. Make sure that the new ignition switch is working and that your engine is running smoothly. You should also double-check that the new ignition switch is compatible with your vehicle's model and model. If you're not confident in your ability to install the new ignition switch it could be worth employing a dealership service shop to install it for you. They can also test the replacement and install any other parts that require to be connected or replaced.
|
