How to Fix Car ignition key won’t turn Problems
The car ignition barrel replacement won’t start unless the switch transmits an electrical signal to the starter. Normal wear and tear over time could cause the switch malfunction.
Utilizing special tools, you can remove your steering column trim and access the ignition cylinder module. Refer to your repair manual for learn how to do it correctly.
1. Check the Switch
A bad switch is among the most common ignition issues. It regulates when relays are activated and deactivated by acting as bridge. It is more likely to fail since it does a new ignition switch require a new key not channel full power from devices like the starter. It is still susceptible to being damaged or corrosion-prone.
A defective switch is identified by a difficult time turning the key. This can be caused by various factors such as improperly inserting the key, or wearing out the mechanism over time. It’s not unusual for people to mix their keys up with someone else’s. This can cause mechanical damage.
Before contacting a locksmith, you may try a few options. First, make sure that the battery is fully charged and that there are no electrical issues within the system. Also, you should check the voltage of every component to ensure they are supplying enough power. Once you’ve completed these steps, it’s now time to begin troubleshooting.
Luckily, the ignition switch is pretty easy to replace. It is connected to the ignition module, a round component that holds everything together. You’ll need to use an elongated flathead as well as something that is long enough to push the pin into. It could be anything from a paintbrush handle to a kabob skewer, but you should avoid using anything that is brittle and break inside the hole.
Once you’re ready to complete the work, you’ll need to take off any trim pieces covering the area around the ignition switch. Once you’ve done this take off and loosen any screws that hold the switch in place and then carefully pull it out. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect any cables connected to it. If you have a manual for the vehicle you own and model, it will show you exactly how to do it.
It’s best to get the ignition switch replaced by professionals when it’s not working. It can be difficult to replace the ignition switch, without disabling the steering column. This could result in an accidental airbag being deployed when you don’t do it correctly. It is recommended to allow your locksmith to handle this.
2. Check the Wire
The car may not start if it is difficult to turn the key or it isn’t starting. This could be due a number of components within the ignition system. Understanding how the ignition system functions can help you spot problems and make the appropriate repairs.
The ignition switch is a low voltage multi-pole electrical switch that can be operated by a key. It has four positions, which include “off”, “accessory”, “run” and the “lock”. If the switch is in the lock position (which usually has a red indicator) the ignition circuit is in operation and it is not possible to start the engine.
To determine if the ignition switch is damaged or the ignition coil is faulty, you’ll must conduct a quick electrical test with an voltmeter. If the ignition switch is running at a certain voltage, the voltmeter should read around 12.6, If the voltage is lower than that it indicates that there is an open circuit somewhere within the system. This could be the battery, solenoid or the ignition coil.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch to ensure that no other components interfere with your test. Set the voltmeter on the resistance or continuity modes and then place one lead on one of the terminals on the ignition switch. The other lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery. If the voltmeter shows “open” or fails to register any voltage, you should replace the switch.
When changing the switch, make sure to use a brand new ignition cylinder as well as a high quality key cut to ensure that your vehicle will start and run properly. When you replace the switch, make sure not to touch the pins of the ignition cylinder using your tools. Otherwise, they will get stuck and your engine won’t run. You’ll need to remove the steering wheel as well as the gear selector in some vehicles to access the ignition cylinder replacement near me cylinder. This can be difficult and shouldn’t be done unless you have an owner’s manual that indicates it’s safe to do this. If you don’t then you could cause serious damage to your steering column and shift mechanism.
3. Check the Cylinder
If you’ve tried the battery, the wiring, and the ignition switch, but still cannot get your car to start It could be time to inspect 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 steer the car without a key.
You may notice that your key will not turn if the cylinder is worn out. The pins inside the cylinder may become stuck as they adapt to the shape of your key. This can cause your vehicle to not start. The cylinder could also be shaky, but a tap with a small tack hammer can assist in releasing it. Be careful not to crush the springs within and make sure that your key is properly installed prior to tapping.
If you are required to jiggle and move your key before it will begin, this is another indication that your cylinder is been damaged. This is a bad sign, and it must be addressed immediately, since it will only get worse over time.
To examine the cylinder you’ll need to unplug your battery and remove the cover around your steering wheel until you can access the ignition module. You’ll then be able to pull out the old ignition switch and the cylinder made of metal. If you don’t have an extra switch, you may be able take the original ignition cylinder and 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, secure it in place and reattach any covers or panels you removed.
4. Check the Spark Plugs
The spark plug is the final link in your ignition chain. When it is damaged, the engine can’t run. This could take the form of your car not starting at all, or may start but not run well. In either case, the reason is likely to be one of a few things that prevent or impair the flow of electricity across the spark plug gap which allows your engine’s gas and fuel mixture.
Be sure to use protective tools and gloves before you begin working with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are hot and could cause serious injury if you touch them with your naked skin.
When a spark plug goes bad, you may notice that the tip of the electrode’s central portion has some light brown or gray substance on it. The electrode may also have a dark layer. The deposits or fouling may stop high-voltage electrical current from jumping across the gap of your spark plug, igniting an engine.
If you suspect that your spark plugs could be the culprit you can test them by having them remove them from their tube inside the ignition coil. This can be done by disconnecting the coil and the plug wire. After that, you’ll be required to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle in order to take off the components that are covering the plugs. After you have removed the plugs, you can place them on a grounded metal surface and then crank the engine. If they’re working you will see an intense blue spark near the edge of the central electrode.
If you don’t detect a spark, you’ve found the issue. Next, you’ll need to go backwards through your ignition chain and test each component until the spark plugs are no longer working. All systems wear out and eventually break, and this is particularly relevant to ignition systems. But, regular maintenance can help to slow down the process and avoid a big headache at the worst possible time.