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How to Fix Car Ignition Switch Problems There are many reasons why your car might be running and starting, but the ignition doesn't turn on the spark plugs. Some are simple and inexpensive to fix, whereas others require specialized equipment and the help of mechanics. Lubricate the key socket first. You can make use of graphite powder or silicon spray. Make sure that the ignition cylinder has no obstructions or loose springs. Battery If your car isn't starting it could be because the battery is dead. This is a frequent issue that can be resolved by either charging your battery or an electrical jump. If this doesn't solve the issue your ignition switch could be bad. The switch is the one that supplies battery power to the other electrical components, such as the starter motor and the ignition coil. If the ignition switch is not working properly it won't allow current to be passed through, and the engine will not begin. The battery is the primary source of electrical energy in your vehicle. It's a black box with positive (+) and negative (–) terminals on the top. The terminals can become damaged, preventing the battery from providing electricity to the rest of the vehicle. Clean the battery's terminals by disconnection of the battery and using a wire brush to eliminate any corrosion. You can also use a baking soda solution to clean the terminals. It is also possible that your car's battery is nearing the end of its lifespan and is in need of replacement. A new battery will supply the right voltage to the spark plugs in your vehicle which is necessary to ensure that your engine is running properly. The ignition coil converts low voltage from your battery into high voltage that causes the spark plugs of your car and start the engine. If your ignition coil is not working properly it won't be able to spark the plugs. The engine will not start. The ignition coil can be inspected by examining the engine for sparks or turning the key to see whether it spins. It is also possible to replace the starter motor. If you hear a grating sound when you turn the key in your ignition, it is a sign that the bearings inside the starter are beginning to wear out. This could be a costly repair, so it's best to replace the starter motor as soon as possible when you see any signs of wear and tear. The replacement of the starter motor is a relatively simple process that involves replacing the bolts and a few components. Alternator The alternator is an instrument that recharges your battery while your engine is running. It also powers your car's electrical components. Check the battery first if you suspect your alternator may be malfunctioning. This will allow you to determine if the alternator is draining the battery or if your battery is old and requires replacement. Your car's alternator also provides power for your dashboard lights, windshield wipers, power windows, electric steering heated seats, and your radio even when the car is running. A voltmeter can be used to determine the voltage of your alternator and battery. If your battery has less than 6 volts, it must be replaced or charged immediately. A dead or weak battery will also prevent the starter motor from turning the engine, and will require additional jumper cables to start your car. Before you begin to dismantle the Alternator, turn off the ignition and lock all doors. Disconnect the negative cable and store it in a safe place. Wear safety gear. Check out a specific vehicle repair manual for instructions on how to access the alternator as well as any other components you'll need to take off. If your vehicle is equipped with a warning light wire, you can disconnect it from the back of the generator after taking off the belt. The wire will be connected directly to an alternator connector marked WL or IN. Some vehicles, however, have an additional relay for this function. If your warning light doesn't blink, it's likely that you have an issue that is not related to the one you are experiencing. You should regularly inspect your alternator for indications of malfunction. You can perform certain of these tests yourself, but it's best to bring your vehicle into Les Schwab so that they can inspect it and offer you advice from a professional. Our technicians will test for corrosion on your battery posts, battery (+ and +) and relays, fuses, as well as voltage output, cold starting amps, and many more. Starter Motor The starter motor is a crucial component of the ignition system. It turns the engine so that air can be sucked in, which is needed to ignite the fuel. It is common for the starter motor to be the cause when your car isn't turning over. There are many troubleshooting techniques that can aid in diagnosing and fixing the issue. When you turn on your car's ignition key, a switch within the starter activates a pinion gear that fits into grooves of the flywheel. The pinion gear turns the flywheel, which in turn begins the engine. When you release the key the pinion gear retracts and is released from the flywheel to prevent damage. There are a myriad of things that could cause problems with the starter motor, for example, an electrical issue in the internal windings, a mechanical issue (such as teeth not meshing with the pinion gear or flywheel) or a dead battery. Often, a faulty starter motor can sound like a dead battery; it'll make a clicking noise when it attempts to turn the engine, but won't. The charge level and the terminals of the battery will be examined by a mechanic when the starter motor fails to work. If the battery is low or has corrosion on its terminals, it will require charging or replaced. Depending on the severity of the issue The mechanic can also test the solenoid on the starter using a multimeter. The solenoid, which is a large magnet switch, transmits a surge of power from the long battery cables 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 triggers an axis rod to trigger an engaging fork, which causes the pinion to automatically engage the flywheel. A jumper wire can be used to bypass the ignition. This is a temporary option, and it isn't recommended unless you are able to do it right. You will need to carefully route your jumper wires to the battery terminals, and then 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 electric current to the starter. However, it is not immune to wear like other components of the car. The switch could also become stuck in its slot or become locked. It is important to check for issues regularly so you can act before your car doesn't start. It could have been locked if your key is difficult to turn or gets stuck in the ignition. G28 occurs in a variety of vehicles due to a lack grease. You can apply a graphite- or silicone-based oil to lubricate your release pin. Spray some lubricant on the ignition and then turn the key. If you're stuck then try using a hacksaw or piler blade. An issue with the ignition may cause other issues. The anti-theft device may stop working, or the starter motor may not turn on when you put in the key. It could also cause other functions to cease functioning or cease to function altogether. A malfunctioning ignition could cause extra wear and tear on other components. If you own a keychain with multiple items, or a bulky one, this could cause strain on the ignition switch and accelerate wear on the internal components. Extreme temperature fluctuations may impact the materials and lubricants in the ignition switch. Once you have a replacement ignition switch, you need to test it prior reassembling the steering column and other parts. Make sure the replacement is working and that the engine starts without issues. Verify the compatibility of the new ignition switch with your car's model and make. If you're not confident in your ability to install an ignition switch that is new it could be worth hiring a dealership service shop to install it for you. They can also test and connect any other parts or replace them.