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How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems If your car is running and starts, but the ignition switch doesn't switch over the spark plugs, there could be a variety of reasons for this. Some are easy and inexpensive to fix, while others require special equipment and the assistance of an expert mechanic. The first step is to lubricate the socket that holds the key. You can use graphite powder or a silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder is clean and has no loose springs or obstructions. Battery If your car won't start, it could be due to the battery being dead. This is a common problem that can be solved with a battery charge or an electrical jump. If this does not fix the issue the ignition switch could be defective. This component supplies battery power to other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is damaged it will not allow current to flow through it and the engine will not start. The battery is the source of all the electrical energy that is used in your car. The battery is a black box that has positive (+) and negatively (–) terminals on the top. The terminals may be corroded and stop the battery from providing power to the rest of the vehicle. You can clean the battery's terminals by disconnection of the battery and using a wire brush to remove any corrosion. You can also clean the terminals with baking soda. Your car battery may also be nearing the end of its lifespan and requires 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 converts low voltage from your battery into high voltage, which causes it to ignite the spark plugs in your car and then start the engine. If the ignition coil is damaged, it won't be capable of sparking the plugs, and the engine won't start. The ignition coil can be inspected by checking the engine for a spark or turning the key to check whether it is turning. You may also need to replace the starter motor. If you hear a grinding sound as you turn the ignition key it is a sign that the starter bearings are wearing out. It can be an expensive repair, so it is recommended to replace your starter motor immediately if you begin to notice signs of wear. The starter motor can be changed by replacing the bolts and components. Alternator The alternator is a device that charges your battery while your engine is running. It also powers your car's electrical components. Test the battery first if you suspect that your alternator is failing. This will allow you to determine if your alternator draining the battery or if your battery is old and in need of replacement. Your car's alternator also provides power for the dash lights, windshield wipers as well as power windows, electric steering, heated seats and your radio even when the vehicle is idle. A voltmeter can be used to determine the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery's voltage is lower than 6 volts, it should be replaced or charged as soon as possible. Batteries that are dead or not charged will also stop the starter from turning the engine on, and will require additional jumper cables to start your vehicle. Before you begin dismantling the Alternator, shut off the ignition and lock all doors. Also, disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then tuck it away somewhere safe and put on your safety equipment. Refer to a vehicle specific repair manual for guidance on how to gain access to the alternator as well as any other components you require to remove. If your car has a warning light wire, you can remove it from the back of the generator after removing the belt. This wire will connect directly to an alternator terminal that is marked WL or IN. Some vehicles, however have an additional relay for this purpose. If your warning light doesn't blink, it's likely that you have a different issue. The alternator is a vital part of your vehicle, and it is important to inspect it regularly for signs of trouble. While you can perform some of the checks yourself, it's best to bring your vehicle into Les Schwab for a free inspection and expert advice. Our technicians 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 essential component of the ignition system. It is responsible for turning over the engine to draw in air, which is required to ignite the fuel. When your car won't start it is often due to a malfunction in the starter motor. There are several ways to troubleshoot to help you determine the problem and fix it. When you turn the key on the ignition of your vehicle the switch inside the starter engages with a pinion gear that fits into grooves on the flywheel. The pinion gear is then turned the flywheel, which starts the engine. The pinion gear retracts when you release the key to avoid damage. The starter motor may be affected by a range of factors, including mechanical issues (such as teeth that don't mesh on the flywheel) or dead cells. Often, a faulty starter motor will just sound like a dead battery. it will make a clicking sound when it attempts to turn over the engine, but won't. If the starter motor doesn't work, one of the first things a mechanic would check is the state of charge on the battery and its terminals. If the battery is corroded or is not functioning properly, it will need to recharged or replaced. Depending on how serious the issue is, a mechanic can also test the solenoid with a multimeter. The solenoid is a large magnetic switch that delivers the power of the battery cables that are long and thick to the starter. The switch connects the long cable from the battery to the windings in the starter which will turn the motor. It also pulls an axis rod to trigger an engaging fork, which causes the pinion to automatically engage with the flywheel. A jumper wire can be used to bypass the ignition. This is an option for a short-term fix that you should not try it unless you're confident about how to do it. You will need to carefully connect your jumper wires the battery terminals, and make sure that the switch is in the “Start position”. Ignition Switch The ignition switch is the place where you insert your car keys. This allows the system to allow electrical flow to the starter and start up the engine, however it's not immune to wear and tear as other car components. The switch can also become stuck in its slot or even locked. It is essential to regularly check it for issues so you can take action prior to the car not starting. If your key is a struggle to turn, or gets stuck in the ignition, it could have been locked. This problem occurs in many vehicles due to a lack lubrication. Using a graphite or silicone-based lubricant on the release pin can aid. Spray some lubricant on the ignition, and then move the key. If it's still stuck make use of a piler or a hacksaw blade to help move it. G28 Car Keys with the ignition can also cause other issues. The anti-theft device may stop working, or the starter motor might not start when you plug in the key. It could also cause other functions to cease functioning or cease to function altogether. A malfunctioning ignition switch could also leave you with a lot of wear and tear on other components. For example, if you carry a bulky keychain, or several items on your keychain it can strain the ignition switch when you plug it in and can accelerate the wear and tear on its internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may affect the materials and lubricants used in the ignition switch. It's important to test the replacement ignition switch prior to reassembling other components and the steering column. Make sure that the switch works and that your engine starts without any issues. You should also double-check that the new ignition switch is compatible with your vehicle's model and model. It may be worthwhile to get a dealership to install the ignition switch for you if you are not confident about your ability to do so. They will also test the replacement and install any other components that require to be connected or replaced.