Grounded out ignition switch
I accidentally grounded out the ignition switch becausei disnt disconnect the battery. Now car is completely dead when i turn key.
My car has 211000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi there. The ignition switch will need to be replaced as it was grounded out. If there is still no power when the switch is replaced, then you will need to check all of the wiring from the ignition switch to the fuse box. It is best to remove the battery cables to prevent an short with an electrical circuit when working on the vehicle. I recommend seeking out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you diagnose your electrical system.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
If your key doesn`t turn in the cylinder of your Honda, you have two options: replacing the ignition lock and cylinder or repair the key and the cylinder. Usually, people just call a car dealer to handle this one, but this can be expensive and take a lot of time.
When drivers try to turn off the car while moving the steering wheel, it sometimes locks in place and traps the key. To solve the problem, turn your key in the ignition while moving your steering wheel as much as possible. It might take a few tries, but you should be able to free your key.
The most common reasons a Honda Civic key won`t turn are a binding steering column/lock, an ignition switch issue, or a problem with the ignition key. Search our network of RepairPal Certified shops near you to speak with a technician about your issue.
If the ignition switch fails while the engine is still on, it may cut off power to the ignition and fuel systems, which will cause the engine to stall. Depending on the exact issue, the vehicle may or may not be able to be restarted a short while later.
Worn ignition switch contacts, temperature problems, or broken springs can all cause the ignition switch to fail, preventing you from starting your car. On the road, poor ignition switch contacts could shut the engine off while driving, which could be dangerous.
Check the voltage of the battery in the PCM using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to DC volts and connect its probes to the battery terminals. The reading should be around 12V. If it is lower than 10V, then check for any loose connections or other issues with the power supply before proceeding further.
You can still start your Honda Civic engine, even if your key fob is dead. After you have used the hidden key to unlock the door, get into the driver`s seat. Replace the key in the back of the key fob. Then, step on the brake while holding the fob close to the start/stop button next to the steering wheel.
Check the voltage of the battery in the PCM using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to DC volts and connect its probes to the battery terminals. The reading should be around 12V. If it is lower than 10V, then check for any loose connections or other issues with the power supply before proceeding further.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
I put a new ignition switch in my 2004 chrystlwr pacifica but it still wont start, how do i program rhe ignition switch?
ANSWER : Hello.
If your vehicle is not cranking, but the lights and accessories come on then it may be possible that the issue is rooted elsewhere. I would verify that the starting and electrical system are in good order. A no crank condition can be caused by a faulty battery, starter, starter solenoid, relay, or any of the wiring associated with these components. I would start with checking the battery and starter, and go from there. If you wish to program your new switch and key, the procedure is as follows:
Note: You must have two valid keys to add a new key to the system.
Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position for at least three seconds, but no longer than 15 seconds. Then, Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the first key.
Insert the second valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position within 15 seconds. After 10 seconds, a chime will sound. In addition, the vehicle security light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the lock position and remove the second key.
Insert the new key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position. Within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will stop flashing. To indicate that programming is complete, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on again for seconds and then turn off.
The new key is now programmed. The Remote Keyless Entry transmitter will also be programmed during this procedure.
Repeat this procedure to program up to eight keys.
If you need some assistance with this, consider YourMechanic, as one of our certified technicians can diagnose the starting issue firsthand and perform this procedure as necessary.
I put a new ignition switch in my 2004 Chrysler Pacifica but it still wont start, how do I program the ignition switch?
ANSWER : Hello. If your vehicle is not cranking, then I would first verify that the starter and electrical system are functioning correctly. Aside from a bad ignition switch, a few common causes for a no crank condition are a faulty starter, starter solenoid, starter relay, or bad wiring. If you replaced the switch, and wish to program the new keys the procedure is as follows:
Note: You must have two valid keys to add a new key to the system.
Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the
ON/RUN position for at least three seconds, but no longer than 15 seconds.
Then, Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the first key.
Insert the second valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position within 15 seconds. After 10 seconds, a chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the second key.
Insert the new key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will stop flashing. To indicate that programming is complete, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on again for seconds and then turn off.
The new key should now be programmed. The Remote Keyless Entry transmitter will also be programmed during this procedure. Repeat this procedure to program up to eight keys. If you are still having problems with this after you’ve replaced the key, a certified technician from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to inspect the cranking issue.
Car ignition switch only recieving less then a volt from battery wire. Fuse, ground, battery are good. Manual Car 97 civic.
ANSWER : Hi there. The first thing I would inspect is the ignition relay; as usually this is the culprit of partial electrical delivery to the ignition cylinder. However, it is possible that an exposed wire inside the steering column or ignition lock cylinder could be causing this problem as well. It might save you a lot of trouble, stress and money to have one of our mobile mechanics come to your location and complete an electrical problems inspection to isolate the source of this problem and recommend the right repairs.
I changed ignition starter switch, it cranked then die again. Fuel pump is not coming on. Could it be the ignition switch itself?
ANSWER : The ignition switch turn on circuits to supply power to the vehicle, but does not control the fuel pump itself. If your vehicle is equipped with a fuel filter, it can clog and cause the fuel pump to work harder eventually burning it out. Have a technician check for supply voltage at the fuel pump and check fuel pressure. If there is power going to the pump and no fuel pressure, replace the fuel pump. Consider hiring an experienced technician like one from YourMechanic who can come out and take a closer look at your stalling concerns and offer a more personal diagnosis.
Got a new ignition switch, car starts now but believe it’s faulty. Can a bad ignition switch damage the catalytic converter?
ANSWER : Hi There,
The catalytic converter is entirely unrelated to the ignition switch and neither of these should impact the other. The catalytic converter converts toxic exhaust gases into less harmful pollutants that are suitable to be expelled into the atmosphere. When the catalytic converter is clogged, this causes these gases to be backed up into the exhaust system not allowing the engine to breathe properly. When this happens, the engine is forced to work much harder to expel these gases. This often results in the engine bogging down, hesitating, shaking and causing very poor fuel economy. This should also cause a check engine light to come on as the O2 sensors should be reading the incorrect amounts of oxygen in the exhaust gases if this is your problem. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and replace your catalytic converter.
If I replace the ignition switch, can I use my existing BMW Keys with remote and valet key?
ANSWER : Yes, you can. The ignition switch is separate from the EWS system, so replacing the switch will still allow you to use the current keys you already have. Only if you have to replace a faulty key or EWS module will you have to possibly order all new keys.
One other possibility is there is an EWS issue where the key is not being properly identified not allowing the starting sequence. This would mean ordering an EWS module or keys from the dealer. Try out all keys you have to see if any will commence in the starting sequence. If none of the keys will start the vehicle, faults should be checked to ensure there are no EWS key identification faults. If no faults are present, then most likely the ignition switch is faulty. If there are key identification faults, then it’s either a key, module, or receiver that is the issue. You may want to consult with a mechanic who has the equipment to read out the Powertrain and EWS fault memories before replacing parts.
What is the second switch called on my headlight switch?
ANSWER : Hi there. The second switch on that turn signal indicator is the parking lights. However, I understand what you’re thinking about doing and would highly recommend purchasing a detailed wiring schematic for your Mitsubishi or a repair and service manual first. Many people attempt to do this and end up calling a mechanic to rewire their accessory system due to an electrical fault or the wrong wires hooked up. Proceed with caution or have a local professional mechanic or car audio / alarm company provide you with the detailed instructions to complete this project.
How to replace an ignition cylinder? do I also have to replace ignition switch? cause key has a chip that’s specific my dodge.
ANSWER : In some cases i have seen the outer ignition housing okay and just the key lock cylinder damaged. In others they damage the housing and ignition lock cylinder. In either case you cannot use your key; it will be a problem since the chip is programmed to your vehicle and will require programming. You may have to replace the entire housing on the column and have the new ignition key reprogrammed to start the car.
Before you purchase any parts, have it inspected to see the damaged parts so you get what is needed. You will need a qualified mechanic to install parts and program the key with a factory scanner. This may mean the dealer will have to do the programming of the new key or a specialized locksmith.
