How To Test Ignition Switch – Two Different Methods

A dysfunctional ignition switch can cause plenty of trouble. It may result in some electrical components stopping working, the car does not start or dies immediately after being started. You may need to replace the switch if the problem becomes severe or the car does not respond at all. But, you have to know how to test ignition switch to determine that it actually is broken and needed to be fixed.

Symptoms Of A Failing Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is an essential part of keeping your vehicle on the road. It has an important role in activating the main electrical of the car. Without a working ignition switch, you might notice your car not starting or your car radio not working. Know about the symptoms before jumping to the conclusion that you need to replace the component or learn how to test ignition switch. A faulty switch will show these signs to warn about a potential issue.

Sudden halt of the vehicle

It is the primary sign that the ignition key is failing. If the failure occurs when the engine is running, it may cut the power to the ignition and fuel system, resulting in the stalling of the car.

Car stalls after starting

It happens when the switch fails in the ‘ON’ position. It may supply power to the fuel and ignition systems when the engine is cranking but stops functioning immediately after. Additionally, a failing ignition switch can cause the engine to stall while driving, which can be dangerous, especially if it happens at high speeds.

Trouble powering up the accessories

Turning the key to the ‘acc’ position is likely to power up the accessories. When it does not happen, there must be a problem with it. When the ignition switch goes bad, it may not be able to provide power to accessories such as the radio, power windows, or air conditioning.

Difficulty starting the engine 

One of the most common symptoms of a failing ignition switch is difficulty starting the engine. You may have to turn the key multiple times or wiggle it around to get the engine to start.

Electrical problems

A failing ignition switch can cause electrical problems in your vehicle. You may experience issues with the headlights, dashboard lights, or other electrical components.

Key stuck in the ignition

Another symptom of a failing ignition switch is the key getting stuck in the ignition. This can happen when the switch fails to release the key after starting the engine.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue. Ignoring a failing ignition switch can lead to more serious problems down the road.

How To Test Ignition Switch: The Procedure

The function of this component is to provide voltage to the ignition control module and ignition coil. The ignition system has two wires attached to the switch’s run terminal. One goes into the module and the other establishes a connection to the primary resistor and coil. The switch’s start terminal also has a wired connection to the module.

To examine the ignition switch, you have to remove it from its slot and check the resistance and continuity all along the terminals. Before the removal, it is necessary to examine whether the connections to the switch are working.
You can check the voltage of the switch by using two tools – a 12-volt test light or a digital multimeter.

How to test ignition switch with a test light

Step 1: Disconnect the module’s wire connector after turning the ignition switch off. Also, disengage the starter solenoid’s S terminal. Doing so will stop the engine from cranking despite turning the ignition key to the run position.

Step 2: Rotate the ignition key and place it in the run position. Probe the red wire connection to test the voltage. Do the same at the ignition coil’s battery terminal.

Step 3: Then, rotate the switch to the start position and probe the module’s white wire connector and ignition coil’s battery terminal to examine the voltage.

The circuit and the switch are faulty if there is not voltage.

Read more:

• What to Do When the Key Does Not Go into the Ignition?
• The Most Common Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil

How to test ignition switch with multimeter

Turn the ignition key to the off position. Use the positive lead of the multimeter to back-probe the module’s power feed wire. The negative lead should go into the distributor base’s good ground.

Now the key has to go to the run position and you have to measure the voltage with the meter. Anything less than 90% of the battery voltage indicates trouble with the ignition system.

Or you can follow the steps below:

• Set your multimeter to the resistance or continuity mode. This will allow you to measure the electrical continuity of the switch.
• Locate the ignition switch in your vehicle. It is usually located on the steering column or dashboard.
• Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch. This will prevent any other electrical systems from interfering with your test.
• Place one multimeter lead on one of the switch terminals and the other lead on the other terminal.
• Turn the ignition key to the “ON” position. If the switch is functioning properly, the multimeter should show a reading of zero ohms or beep to indicate continuity. If the switch is faulty, the multimeter will show an infinite reading, indicating an open circuit.
• Repeat the test with the ignition key in the “OFF” position. The multimeter should show an infinite reading or no continuity. If it shows continuity in the “OFF” position, the switch may be faulty.
• Finally, test the switch while turning the key. The multimeter should show continuity when the key is in the “ON” or “START” positions, and no continuity in the “OFF” position.

Learning about how the ignition switch test  in this video: