Five Signs of a Failing Ignition

The Signs Your Ignition Needs Service

Every day we put our car keys in the ignition and turn it without thinking twice about what has to happen before the engine starts rumbling. Most drivers take it for granted unless there’s a problem and the engine won’t turn over, and they’re stranded!

No matter when and where this happens, it’s going to leave you with a sinking feeling. How can you avoid that sense of panic? Just stay two steps ahead of any ignition repair need by recognizing these five early warning signs of a failing ignition. At Coopers Auto Repair Specialists in Tacoma, WA, we are ready to diagnose and repair any issues your ignition system may have.

Car Will Not Start

How do you know there’s a problem with your car starting? It won’t start. This first warning sign is a no-brainer. There may still be another way to start your vehicle by cranking the engine. However, you’ll notice that the vehicle is operating especially slow because of a disruption in electrical flow in the ignition system.

Key Does Not Turn Over

Another obvious, yet common, problem is the inability of the key to turn once inside the ignition. You should always check to make sure that it’s not the steering column’s position that has locked the ignition, preventing it from turning over. If the key remains impossible to turn in the ignition, it could be from excessive wear and the key is not able to align with the key hole.

Dashboard Lights Are Flickering

Flashing dashboard lights indicate a serious problem that needs immediate attention. This type of ignition problem indicator may not be common, but it will notify you of the ignition problem while the vehicle is in motion. As with any other flashing dashboard light, you’ll need to get it checked out immediately.

Car is Stalling

Another warning sign that there is a problem with the ignition is if your vehicle starts stalling while driving down the road. This will typically happen while the vehicle is in motion, as opposed to stopped at a stoplight. You’ll notice that your power steering and power braking have stopped if your vehicle stalls while driving.

Silent Starter Motor

Sometimes when we turn the ignition, we get silence in return. Our first guess might be that the battery is dead. While this is the most common problem, it’s not always the case. You can do a quick check of other vehicle functions like the radio or power windows. If they’re working, then it could be an ignition repair that you need.

Regardless of which warning sign you are experiencing, ignition system repair is something you should never ignore. It’s always best to have your vehicle checked out at the first sign of ignition trouble so you don’t end up with even more costly repairs needed down the line. Bring your car, truck, or SUV to Coopers Auto Repair Specialists in Tacoma, WA, for all of your ignition repair needs.