What was wrong with the GM ignition switch?

What was wrong with the GM ignition switch?

General Motors faced an uproar in 2014 over its handling of a defective ignition switch in some of the cars it manufactured — a problem that led to at least 13 deaths. The faulty switches could inadvertently shut off car engines and airbags during driving. Recalled models included Chevrolet Cobalts and Saturn Ions.

What caused the GM ignition switch recall?

On February 6, 2014, General Motors (GM) recalled about 800,000 of its small cars due to faulty ignition switches, which could shut off the engine while the vehicle was in motion and thereby prevent the airbags from inflating….General Motors ignition switch recalls.

Date	February 6, 2014
Cause	Faulty ignition switch

Which GM vehicles have faulty ignition switches?

These recalled GM vehicles include:

• All 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt.
• 2007-2010 Pontiac G5.
• 2003-2007 Saturn Ion.
• 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR.
• 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice.
• 2007-2010 Saturn Sky.

What is a unintended ignition key rotation?

The recall was for “Unintended Ignition Key Rotation” along with an airbag issue that either blew the airbag up without notice or it didn’t inflate all the way during a crash. This recall can effect you if you are in the correct year range.

What happens when your ignition switch goes bad?

1. Car stalls while driving. If the ignition switch fails while the engine is operating 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.

How do I test my ignition switch?

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.

How do I know my ignition switch is bad?

Auto Electric: Ignition Switch Problems

1. Car Fails to Start. One of the most obvious signs of a failing or faulty ignition switch is if the car won’t start when the key is turned.
2. Key will not Turn. If you cannot easily turn the key in the ignition you may have a bad ignition switch.
3. Vehicle Stalls.
4. No Noise from the Starter Motor.
5. Dashboard Lights Flicker.

What are the signs of a bad ignition relay?

5 Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Relay

• Ignition is unresponsive.
• Engine stalls.
• Fluctuating Ignition power.
• Dead car battery after night.
• Bad electronic smell.

How can you tell if the ignition switch is bad?

Put the ignition key into the ignition switch and crank the engine. If the engine cranks, then your ignition switch is obviously working fine. If the engine does not crank, and you hear a “click” when you first turn the key to the “III” position, then your ignition switch is not the problem.

Can you bypass ignition switch?

Bypassing a broken ignition switch is quite a technical procedure that will require a little more than just a manual and a keen sense of learning. The best case scenario is that you take your car to a professional to handle it or simply just replace the switch. Keep in mind Oznium does not sell ignition switches.

Why won’t my car start but I have power?

If your vehicle won’t start, it’s usually caused by a dying or dead battery, loose or corroded connection cables, a bad alternator or an issue with the starter. It can be hard to determine if you’re dealing with a battery or an alternator problem.

What does it mean when my car wont start but all the lights come on?

This is usually due to battery failure, which is due to something being left on and causing the battery to drain. It could also be due to poor connections, damaged battery terminals, or a bad or dead battery. Sometimes, this could even be due to the starter, with the control terminal becoming corroded.

What do I do if my car wont start but the battery works?

Here are some things to try if your car won’t turn over.

1. What To Do If Your Car Won’t Start:
2. Try: Cycling the Key.
3. Try: Tapping on the battery Terminals.
4. Try: Smacking the starter.
5. Try: Shifting the Shifter.
6. Try: Swapping Relays.
7. Try: Smacking the Fuel Tank.
8. Try: Un-flooding a flooded engine.

How do you start a car with a bad ignition switch?

Then locate the starter solenoid and connect the solenoid to the positive battery terminal. Then unplug the ignition switch wiring from the solenoid. Using a screwdriver, short the solenoid’s positive terminal to the post where the ignition switch connects. This will activate the solenoid and the car should startup.

What causes ignition switch failure?

Worn 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.

Does a new ignition switch require a new key?

It’s required to get a key replacement from manufacturer. What do I do if my ignition switch is stuck? You could try spraying some WD40 down in the hole and a bit on the key, then inserting the key and turning it again.

How do I know if my starter or ignition switch is bad?

First, check the starter by turning the key in the ignition to ON and then using a circuit tester or voltmeter to see if there is power to the wires leading to the starter. If there is power, you have a bad starter.

How do you troubleshoot an ignition switch?

How to Troubleshoot Ignition Switch Problems

1. Open the fuse panel in your vehicle underneath the steering column.
2. Remove the fuse for the ignition starter.
3. Check the metal strip in the fuse.
4. Open the hood and set the dial on the voltmeter to “Volts.”
5. Touch the red lead on the voltmeter to the power terminal on the battery.
6. Read the voltmeter display.

How much does it cost to replace a bad ignition switch?

A lot of what your car does is tied directly into that ignition switch, so if it is not working, then much of your car will be inoperable. To get your ignition switch fixed, you will pay between $125 and $275. The labor costs, on average, about $60, while parts go for anywhere from $75 to $210.

How long do ignition switches last?

100,000 miles

How much does it cost to replace ignition cylinder?

But on average, people tend to pay between $200 to $250 for ignition cylinder replacement. This includes the cost of a new ignition cylinder, which is around $125 to $150, and the cost of the labor associated with the job. There are some factors that could bring that price up or down.

Can ignition switch cause car not start?

Worn switch contacts can momentarily cause a loss of voltage to vital systems, such as the engine controls. Engine won’t start: The ignition switch supplies power to starter motor, ignition system and engine controls. A faulty switch can prevent these systems from getting power, resulting in an engine that won’t start.

Does AutoZone replace ignition switch?

When it’s time to replace your ignition switch, AutoZone carries top-quality replacement products to get the job done. …

Can a locksmith change an ignition switch?

Can a locksmith replace my ignition switch? Yes. A locksmith is fully capable of performing an ignition switch replacement. This is sometimes required after the diagnoses from one of our auto locksmiths.

Can you spray wd40 in car ignition?

As stated above, WD-40 is not fine. It will eventually gum up and collect all sorts of unimaginable gunk. You’ll also find that many ignition lock cylinders (and keys) simply wear out, which is what can be causing the stickiness you’re now encountering rather than a lack of lube.

How do I get my ignition unstuck?

Wiggle the wheel back and forth while turning the key. While applying light pressure to the key, wiggle the steering wheel back and forth until the lock disengages. This will allow the steering wheel and the key to turn. The key will be able to turn freely in the ignition once the steering wheel is unlocked.

Why are my keys stuck in ignition?

One of the most likely culprits for a stuck ignition key is the steering wheel locking mechanism. When a vehicle is parked, the steering wheel can lock. In some cases, the ignition or vehicle isn’t the problem. It can be a worn or damaged key that has lodged itself in the ignition switch.

How do I unlock my steering wheel and ignition?

Cars With an Ignition Cylinder To unlock your steering wheel, use your left hand to wiggle the steering wheel left and right with significant force. At the same time, use your right hand to turn the ignition key from the LOCK position to the ACC (accessory) or START position.