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How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems If your car starts and runs, but the ignition switch doesn't turn over the spark plugs, it could be a number of reasons for this. Some are easy and cheap to fix, while others require specialized tools and help from an expert mechanic. Lubricate the socket before you use it. You can make use of graphite powder or silicon spray. Also, ensure that the ignition cylinder is free of any obstructions and loose springs. Battery If your car won't start it could be due to the battery being dead. This is a common problem that can be fixed with a jump or charging of the battery. If this doesn't fix the issue the ignition switch could be defective. This component is responsible for transferring battery power to other electrical components such as the starter motor as well as the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is faulty, it won't allow current to flow through and the engine will not start. The battery is the main source of electrical energy in your vehicle. The battery is a black, slender box that has positive (+) and negatively (–) terminals at the top. The terminals could get corroded, preventing the battery from providing power to the rest the vehicle. By disconnecting the battery, you can use a wire bristle to get rid of any corrosion. You can also use baking soda as a solution to help clean the terminals. It's possible that your vehicle's battery has just reached the end of its lifespan and is in need of replacement. A new battery will provide the proper voltage to your vehicle’s spark plugs. This is crucial for a functioning engine. The ignition coil is responsible for converting low voltage from the battery into high voltage that can ignite the spark plugs in your car to start the engine. If the ignition coil is damaged, it will not be able to spark the plugs. The engine will not start. The ignition coil can be inspected by examining the engine for a spark or turning the key to see if it turns over. It is possible to replace the starter motor as well. If you hear a grinding sound as you turn your ignition key it is a sign that the starter bearings are wearing out. It could be a costly repair so it is best to replace your starter motor as soon as you begin to notice signs of wear. The starter motor can be changed by replacing a few bolts and parts. Alternator The alternator is an instrument that charges your battery when your engine is running. It also provides power to your car's electrical parts. If you suspect that there is a issue with your alternator, you should first test the battery. This will enable you to determine if your alternator draining the battery, or if your battery is old and needs replacement. While the vehicle is in idle, the alternator provides power to the dash lights as well as the radio. It also powers the windshield wipers as well as the power windows, the electric steering, the heated seats, and the power windows. You can use a voltage meter to test your battery and alternator to determine the proper voltage levels. If your battery is less than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged immediately. A dead or weak battery can also stop the starter motor from turning the engine and will require additional jumper cables to start your car. Before you start dismantling the alternator, ensure the ignition is turned off and all doors are locked. It is also important to disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away in a safe place and put on your safety gear. Consult a vehicle's specific repair manual for instructions on how to access the alternator as well as any other components you require to take off. If your vehicle has a warning light wire, you can disconnect it from the back of the generator after taking off the belt. This wire will connect directly to the alternator terminal marked WL or IN. Some vehicles have an additional relay that performs this function. If your warning light does not appear, it is likely that there is a different issue. You should check regularly your alternator for any indications of a malfunction. While you can perform some of the checks by yourself, you should bring your vehicle to Les Schwab for a free inspection and expert advice. mobile ignition lock repair services can check for corrosion on your battery posts, battery (+ and –) and relays, fuses, as well as voltage output, cold starting amps, and more. Starter Motor The starter motor is an important component of the ignition system. It turns the engine over to allow air to be drawn in which will ignite the fuel. It is quite common that the starter motor will be the cause of your car doesn't turn. Fortunately, there are several ways to troubleshoot that can be used to aid in diagnosing and fixing the problem. When you turn the key in your vehicle's ignition, a switch in the starter is activated by the pinion gear, which fits into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear turns the flywheel, which initiates the engine. The pinion gear retracts when you remove the key, thereby preventing damage. The starter motor can be affected by a variety of things, including a mechanical problem (such as teeth that don't mesh on the flywheel) or a dead cell. 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 over. The condition of the battery and the terminals of the battery will be checked by a technician in the event that the starter motor does not work. If the battery has corrosion or is depleted, it will need to charged or replaced. Depending on how severe the issue is, a mechanic can test the solenoid by using a multimeter. The solenoid, which is a large magnet switch, transmits an electric current from the long battery cables to the starter. The switch connects the long cable from the battery to the windings in the starter which turns the motor. It also pulls an axis rod to trigger an engaging fork which pushes the pinion to automatically engage with the flywheel. A jumper wire can be used to bypass the ignition. This is a temporary fix and you shouldn't attempt it unless you are certain of the procedure. You'll need to take care to connect your jumper wires to the battery terminals and make sure that the switch is in the “Start position”. Ignition Switch The ignition switch is where you insert your keys into the car. It is used to start the engine and send an electrical current to the starter. However it isn't immune to wear like other components of the car. The switch can also become stuck in its slot or even locked. You should check for problems regularly to identify the problem before the car stops working. If your key seems to struggle to turn or it becomes stuck in the ignition, it might be locked. This is a common problem for a variety of vehicles and occurs because of a lack of lubrication. Using a graphite or silicone-based oil on the release pin can help. Spray a small amount into the ignition and try moving the key. If it's stuck, try using a hacksaw or piler blade. A problem with the ignition could cause other issues. The anti-theft system may stop working, or the starter motor may not start when you plug the key in. It can also cause auxiliary functions to lose power or cease to function altogether. A failing ignition can also cause extra wear and tear to other parts. For example, if you have a heavy keychain or a variety of items on your keychain it can strain the ignition switch when you plug it in, and could increase the wear on its internal components. Extreme temperature changes can also affect the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch. If you've got a new ignition switch, it's important to test it prior reassembling the steering column and other parts. Be sure that the replacement ignition switch is working and that your engine is running smoothly. It is also important to confirm that the new ignition switch is compatible with the vehicle's make and model. It could be worth it to hire a dealership to install the ignition switch for you, if you aren't confident in your ability to install it. They can also test the new switch and install any other components that require to be connected or replaced.