This article will provide steps to follow in Wiring your vehicle’s ignition switch and explain what wires go into the switch.
As the name implies, the ignition switch is in charge of triggering the circuits or signals that start the vehicle.
You must know how to use your ignition switch, especially when the central electrical system goes bad. It’s also good that you know to do this in an emergency.
Thankfully, the procedure isn’t challenging, provided you have the right guide.
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This post will teach you how to wire the ignition switch and provide you with the color codes of different terminals.
Table of Contents
Ignition Switch Wiring Explained
Follow the below guide to completely wire your ignition switch.
1. Park the vehicle
This doesn’t imply that you should park at just any spot, make sure you park in a leveled and convenient spot.
2. Discover the terminals on the ignition switch
Determine the ignition switch’s rear connections and then locate and identify them. You may see four terminals labeled “BATT” (Battery), “ST” (Start), “IGN” (Ignition), and “ACC” depending on the vehicle (Accessory).
Get validation from the manufacturer or the repair handbook to keep your car safe.
3. Remove the Negative battery terminals
Disconnect the negative terminal on your battery to avoid shock while wiring the ignition.
4. Remove Steering wheel coverings
Remove the coverings or trims that might be covering the steering wheels. Look out for any bolt or screw to avoid damaging them.
5. Remove the Steering Wheel
The ignition switch may be located along the steering column in some vehicles, while others may have it in the dashboard. No matter where it is, removing the steering wheel will significantly simplify your task.
You might need to use a steer wheel puller to make the task easier for you. Before carrying out this procedure, it is relevant that you check the manual guide for the car or get an ignition switch panel wiring diagram.
6. Unlock the ignition Module Cover
On the ignition module cover, unlock the hooks. You can do this to remove the lid and access the ignition switch. On the clips, there need to be some releases. The release mechanism on the hooks may need to be pushed down with the help of a screwdriver.
7. Turn the keys to the Accessory Position
Turn the key to the “accessory” position and insert it into the ignition. This is necessary since there is no way to get it out of the ignition module. You might be required to use a flathead screwdriver if you don’t have access to your car key.
You would have to take caution if you must employ a flathead screwdriver.
8. Take out the Release Pin
You can now take out the pins that hold the ignition switch once it is released. The pins should be easy to remove if you follow the steps correctly to this point.
However, you must press the release pin more firmly if you notice some opposition.
9. Inspect the ignition switch
You can perform a visual inspection to decipher what’s wrong with the ignition. Look out for damages or disconnections.
You might need to replace or repair it depending on your needs.
10. Inspect the wires
Determine the positive power lead going from the battery to the ignition switch on the car. The red color cable mainly denotes it. After locating it, attach the terminal end to the power lead wire and tighten it with a terminal multi-tool. The power line is connected to the switch’s “BATT” terminal.
11. Plug the Accessory Wire
The accessory wire is responsible for turning on the car accessories. Plug the Accessory Wire into the “ACC” terminal on the ignition switch.
12. Plug the starter relay wire
The Start wire helps turn the car on when the ignition switch is turned to it. Connect the starter relay wire to the “ST” terminal on the ignition switch.
13. Connect the ignition wire
Connect the ignition wire to the “IGN” terminal on the car’s ignition switch. The vehicle’s ignition, wipers, accessories, and other functioning functions are all controlled by this terminal.
14. Reinstall the ignition switch
You would need to apply some pressure to the release pin to install the newly rewired switch and the new ignition switch, followed by the ignition switch in the steering column.
15. Test the ignition switch
It’s time to test the freshly wired ignition switch after you’ve secured the ignition switch.
You would need to reconnect the battery to accomplish this. No parts should be reassembled until the new ignition switch has been tested and confirmed.
16. Reassemble your vehicle
Once the ignition switch is confirmed to work, it’s time to reassemble your vehicle.
Ensure your car is switched off with the negative terminal of your battery removed while putting the components on.
That’s all you need to know to wire your ignition switch with the correct color code completely.
What wires go to the ignition switch?
The ignition switch cables that go into the ignition switch are red, black, white-red, white-black, and yellow.
There are four wire terminals, though there might be a slight difference depending on your car model. These terminals are represented by the letters “BATT(BATTERY),” “ST(START),” “IGN (IGNITION),” and “ACC (ACCESSORY).” You can check your car’s manual guide for the best representation.
Can I bypass the ignition switch?
Yes, it’s technically possible to Bypass the ignition switch. However, you’ll need training on how to go about it.
You can also take your car to any repair shop nearby for assistance.
Conclusion
A faulty ignition switch could threaten vehicle owners, mainly when not addressed on time.
Although it’s natural for most car components to fail after some time, it will require you to replace, repair, or bypass them.
This article has provided a detailed guide on correctly wiring an ignition switch and the color codes that go to the ignition switch.
I also recommend that you download a universal ignition switch wiring diagram.
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As an automotive enthusiast with extensive hands-on experience in vehicle maintenance and electrical systems, I can confidently guide you through the process of wiring your vehicle's ignition switch. Over the years, I've worked on various car models, addressing issues ranging from routine maintenance to complex electrical repairs.
In the provided article, the steps outlined for wiring the ignition switch are well-structured and cover essential aspects of the process. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:
Ignition Switch Wiring Explained
1. Park the Vehicle
- Emphasizes the importance of parking in a leveled and convenient spot.
2. Discover the Terminals on the Ignition Switch
- Identifying the rear connections, such as "BATT" (Battery), "ST" (Start), "IGN" (Ignition), and "ACC" (Accessory) terminals.
3. Remove Negative Battery Terminals
- Safety precaution to prevent electric shock while working on the ignition wiring.
4. Remove Steering Wheel Coverings
- Advises removing any coverings or trims on the steering wheel, ensuring caution to avoid damage.
5. Remove the Steering Wheel
- Simplifies the task of accessing the ignition switch, mentioning the potential need for a steering wheel puller.
6. Unlock the Ignition Module Cover
- Describes the process of unlocking hooks on the ignition module cover to access the ignition switch.
7. Turn the Keys to the Accessory Position
- Highlights the necessity of turning the key to the "accessory" position to facilitate the removal of the ignition switch.
8. Take Out the Release Pin
- Instructs on removing the pins that hold the ignition switch once released, with emphasis on caution.
9. Inspect the Ignition Switch
- Recommends a visual inspection to identify any damages or disconnections, with possible replacement or repair.
10. Inspect the Wires
- Identifies the positive power lead from the battery to the ignition switch and provides guidance on connecting it.
11. Plug the Accessory Wire
- Instructs on plugging the accessory wire into the "ACC" terminal on the ignition switch.
12. Plug the Starter Relay Wire
- Guides the connection of the starter relay wire to the "ST" terminal on the ignition switch.
13. Connect the Ignition Wire
- Instructs on connecting the ignition wire to the "IGN" terminal, controlling various vehicle functions.
14. Reinstall the Ignition Switch
- Requires applying pressure to the release pin for installing the rewired switch back into the steering column.
15. Test the Ignition Switch
- Emphasizes testing the newly wired ignition switch before reassembling other components.
16. Reassemble Your Vehicle
- Final step after confirming the functionality of the ignition switch.
What Wires Go to the Ignition Switch?
- Red, black, white-red, white-black, and yellow wires are mentioned as going into the ignition switch.
- Four wire terminals: "BATT" (Battery), "ST" (Start), "IGN" (Ignition), and "ACC" (Accessory).
Can I Bypass the Ignition Switch?
- Yes, it's technically possible to bypass the ignition switch, but the article advises seeking training or professional assistance.
Conclusion
- Stresses the importance of addressing a faulty ignition switch promptly and provides a comprehensive guide for wiring and color codes.
- Recommends downloading a universal ignition switch wiring diagram.
Feel free to ask if you have any specific questions or if you need further clarification on any aspect of wiring your vehicle's ignition switch.
