How to Start a Car with a Bad Ignition Switch: A Comprehensive Guide

Last Updated on June 16, 2023 by Mark S. Taylor

Here is a thorough explanation of how to start a car with a faulty ignition switch. Any automobile owner who has to deal with a broken ignition switch knows how frustrating it can be. But if you have the correct information and skills, you can fix this problem and get your automobile working again. In this post, we’ll show you how to start your automobile when the ignition switch is malfunctioning by giving you step-by-step directions, advice, and troubleshooting ideas.

Knowing How to Use the Ignition Switch

It’s crucial to comprehend the function of the ignition switch in a car before getting into how to start a car with a damaged ignition switch. The starter motor and other components in your car receive electrical power from the battery through the ignition switch, which is an essential component. You can use it to lock the steering wheel, start the engine, and operate the electrical accessories.

Ignition switch warning signs

The first step in fixing the problem is to recognise the warning signals of a broken ignition switch. The following are some typical signs of a bad ignition switch:

1. The engine won’t start: Either nothing happens when you turn the key in the ignition, or the engine cranks but doesn’t start.
2. Periodic starting issues: The automobile occasionally starts, but not consistently.
3. Stalling: During or shortly after starting, the engine stalls.
4. Electrical problems: Faulty electrical parts, such as the radio, power windows, or dashboard lights, may point to a malfunctioning ignition switch.
5. The key becomes stuck: It is challenging to insert, remove, or spin the key in the ignition switch.
   If you have any of these problems, your ignition switch probably needs repair.

Safety precautions and measures

Prioritise safety before attempting any of the techniques described in this tutorial. Here are some safety measures to remember:

1. unplug the battery: To avoid electrical shocks or injury, unplug the negative terminal of the automobile batteries before working on any electrical components.
2. Follow manufacturer guidelines: If your car is still covered by a warranty, follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer or seek help from a specialist to prevent voiding the guarantee.
3. Be careful when hot-wiring: Only in dire circumstances and after thoroughly researching the local rules and regulations should you hot-wire an automobile.
   You can reduce your chance of accidents and further damage to your car by taking these steps.

Method 1: Jumper cables

Using jumper wires is one of the quickest and safest ways to start a car with a damaged ignition switch. Here is how to go about it:

1. Step 1: Park a working car close to your car, making sure the two don’t touch.
2. Step 2: Join the red jumper cable’s positive terminal to the dead battery with one end.
3. Step 3: Join the red cable’s other end to the positive terminal of a running vehicle’s battery.
4. Step 4: Connect the black jumper cable’s one end to the battery’s negative terminal on the running vehicle.
5. Step 5: Attach the other end of the black cable to an engine block metal surface far from the battery.
6. Step 6: Turn on the running vehicle and let it run for a while.
7. Step 7: Attempt to start your car. Wait a few more minutes and try again if it doesn’t start the first time.
   Jumper cables can temporarily override the malfunctioning ignition switch and supply the required electricity to start your car’s engine.

Method 2: Ignition switch bypass

When dealing with a defective ignition switch, another approach you might attempt is to bypass it. Please note that depending on the make and type of your vehicle, this approach may differ, so you need refer to your car’s manual for detailed instructions. Here is a general rule of thumb:
Find the ignition switch wire harness as the first step. Usually, you can find it under the dashboard or steering wheel.
Finding the wires leading to the ignition switch is step two. The wire colours may differ, so check your car’s manual or look up the wiring diagram online.

3. Remove some of the insulation from the wires connecting to the ignition switch.
4. Use a wire connector or electrical tape to join the exposed wires together.
5. Step 5: Try to start the automobile by turning the ignition key to the “On” position.
   By connecting the required wires to start the starter motor and the engine without using the ignition switch itself, you are essentially bypassing the ignition switch.

Method 3: Hot Wiring

When there are no other options and you have a solid understanding of the procedure, hot wiring should only be performed in an emergency. Remember that, whether you’re the automobile’s owner or have express authorization, hot wiring a car is often prohibited. Unless you’re in a life-threatening scenario, we strongly advise against trying this procedure.
Usually, in order to hot wire a car, you must:

1. To see the ignition wiring, take off the plastic coverings that surround the steering column.
2. Step 2: Find the cables that supply the ignition system with power. Typically, these are red or yellow.
   Step 3: Remove a small amount of the ignition wires’ insulation.
3. Step 4: Use a screwdriver or another conductive material to reconnect the stripped wires.
4. Turn on the ignition system to start the car after the wires are connected.
   Again, unless absolutely necessary, we strongly advise against using this technique since it may harm your car’s electrical system and have legal repercussions.

Method 4: Using a screwdriver

Another technique that need to be reserved for dire situations and when all other methods have failed is using a screwdriver to start a vehicle. A general description of how to do it is provided below:

1. Step 1: Take off the steering column’s plastic coverings to reveal the ignition switch.
2. Step 2: Place the screwdriver in the keyhole that ordinarily receives the ignition key.
3. Step 3: To start the car, turn the screwdriver in the same manner that you would the key.
4. Step 4: The automobile should start if the ignition switch is the sole problem.
   You can start the car without utilising the defective switch by adopting this technique, which effectively imitates the operation of the ignition key.

Method 5: Request Expert Assistance

It is important to seek professional assistance if none of the aforementioned strategies work or if you feel uncomfortable trying them on your own. Get in touch with an approved mechanic or a dependable auto locksmith who specialises in ignition switch repairs. They will be equipped with the knowledge and resources required to correctly identify the problem and offer a workable solution.

Read More: Fix Portable Jump Starter – Easy Steps to Resolve Issues

Questions and Answers

Question 1: Can a malfunctioning ignition switch start my car?

It is possible to start a car with a damaged ignition switch using other techniques such as jumper cables, hot wiring, or bypassing the ignition switch. However, it’s best to employ these techniques sparingly and only temporarily.

Question 2: Is it safe to turn off the ignition?

It is possible to bypass the ignition switch in some circumstances, but it is not advised as a long-term fix. It is safer to hire a professional to fix or replace the ignition switch.

Question 3: How can I avoid ignition switch issues?

Avoid using too much effort while turning the key, keep the keychain light, and get any indications of ignition switch problems taken care of as soon as possible by a trained expert.

Question 4: Is it a good idea for me to try to fix the ignition switch myself?

It takes skill and understanding to fix the ignition switch on your own. To prevent inflicting more damage or jeopardising your safety, it is advised to seek expert assistance unless you have experience performing vehicle repairs.

Question No. 5: What do I do if none of the solutions work?

The best course of action is to speak with a qualified vehicle locksmith or a mechanic who specialises in ignition system repairs if none of the techniques outlined in this tutorial work. They will be able to correctly identify the problem and suggest a workable solution.

Question 6: Can a defective ignition switch deplete the battery in a car?

Yes, a faulty ignition switch can eventually lead to a dead battery in the car due to a parasitic drain on the battery. To prevent extra battery drain, it’s imperative to get your ignition switch inspected and repaired if you feel it may be broken.

Conclusion
Even though dealing with a faulty ignition switch might be frustrating, you can fix the problem if you have the necessary information and skills. In this post, we gave you a variety of techniques, such as using jumper wires, avoiding the ignition switch, and other short-term fixes. But it’s important to keep in mind that these techniques should only be used as a temporary fix; for a long-term fix, it’s preferable to seek professional advice. Keep yourself safe and put your health first whenever you are dealing with car-related concerns.