Maintenance is an important part of owning any commodity. It is particularly important for things frequently used – cars for instance. While timely maintenance keeps the vehicles in good shape, some issues may rise out of the ordinary. A bad ignition switch remains a common problem for older models with conventional keys. This can also be a problem if you are in a rush as the car won’t start.
Luckily, there are some effective ways to encounter this issue. We will go through some tips on how to start a car with a bad ignition switch and the possible reasons for this malfunction.
Signs of a Bad Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is where you enter the car key. It enables the flow of current to the car’s system. Once you turn the key in the ignition, the system enables electric flow to the starter, and gives the engine the first revolution.
However, the car ignition system like other vehicle components is not prone to damage and can encounter problems. This can be stressful as ignition issues may prevent the car from starting. Luckily, some signs help identify bad ignition switch issues.
By identifying these signs you can get your car repaired at the earliest and prevent further deterioration. Some common signs of a bad ignition system are as follows:
THE VEHICLE CAN NOT START
This is the most obvious sign of a faulty ignition system. If you turn the car keys inside the ignition and the car cranks but won’t start, there may be an ignition problem. This may happen due to the wear and tear of internal ignition components.
CAR KEY HARD TO TURN
One of the symptoms of a bad ignition switch is a hard turning key. The evolution of car keys has seen the introduction of keyless unlocking methods but for vehicles with conventional keys, this can be a sign of a bad switch.
Can you start a car with a bad ignition switch? In this case, you should be. However, hard-to-turn keys can indicate major damage and should be fixed at the earliest. Additionally, if the key get jam inside the system, there are ways to remove stuck car keys from ignition to get the job done efficiently.
VEHICLE STALLING OR TURNING OFF
A stalling vehicle is another sign of a bad ignition switch. If the car suddenly turns off during a drive this can be an indication. This happens when the key is in the ‘on’ position.
NO SOUND OF THE STARTER MOTOR
When you turn the car keys inside the ignition and there is no click sound, it can be bad news. It is usually caused by a bad ignition system.
STUCK STEERING WHEEL
The ignition switch contains a mechanical lock inside the steering wheel. This safeguards the vehicle while parked by locking the steering. If you encounter any problems such as a hard-to-turn steering wheel, it is a wise option to get your vehicle checked. Additionally, if your car starts a second and dies, this may also be caused by faulty spark plugs which can lead to a bad ignition system.
VEHICLE ACCESSORIES ISSUES
If the car accessories such as radio or wipers work, this might be because of a disrupted electric supply from the ignition. This could also be because of any other reason but it is better to get the vehicle checked in such a scenario.
FLICKERING DASHBOARD LIGHTS
Warning lights can indicate several issues such as battery charge or oil change warnings. However, if you come across flickering car dashboard lights, it may also be because of an ignition problem. A vehicle inspection can help identify the problem source.
How to Start a Car with a Bad Ignition Switch
Let’s now go through some ways to learn how to start a car with a bad ignition switch and get out of this unwanted situation.
THE DRILL AND SCREWDRIVER METHOD
How do you bypass the ignition switch to start a car? You can use the drill and screwdriver method, however, this causes damage to the ignition system. Drill into the keyhole to the same length a key enters the ignition.
This will damage the internal pins of the ignition system but you’ll come across the system. Now use the screwdriver like a key and turn it inside the ignition. This should start your car.
HOTWIRING THE CAR
Another effective way to start a car with a bad ignition switch is hotwiring. You can learn how to start a car with a bad ignition switch if you are familiar with hotwiring. There are some steps you should be aware of to hotwire a car.
Moreover, it is equally important not to try this technique on a vehicle you don’t own or if you don’t have the owner’s discretion to carry out the process.
USE JUMPER CABLES
You can start a car with a bad ignition switch using jumper cables. Follow the below-mentioned steps to effectively use this method.
- Open the car hood
- Locate the battery and ignition coil
- Use a jumper cable to connect the positive terminal of the battery to the coil’s positive side
- Get a hold of the starter solenoid and connect it to the battery’s positive terminal
- Remove the ignition wiring from the solenoid
- Use a screwdriver and short the positive terminal of the solenoid to the point where the ignition switch connects
These steps should help you start the car. Additionally, there are some other ways to jumpstart a car without another car which can come in handy during times of need.
All these methods can help you start a car with ignition switch problems. However, these practices can come in handy if you need immediate assistance. It is advised to take your vehicle to the service station as the professionals know better how to fix a bad ignition switch.
Additionally, hotwiring and drilling methods can damage your vehicle and you may end up bearing an additional expense. Therefore, the priority should be to let the professionals handle these matters.
This was everything you needed to know to learn how to start a car with a bad ignition switch. A faulty ignition switch is among the common car problems. However, with timely maintenance and good driving habits, you can minimise the chances of encountering ignition issues.
That said, if you have a car with a keyless ignition, check out these common keyless ignition issues to remain aware of possible problems. Moreover, modern cars come with unique features such as keycards and smartphone apps for unlocking vehicles.
You can find a plethora of unique vehicles and avail the features that come with them. Browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE and select the vehicle best suited to your needs.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for solutions to common car problems and more.
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