What is the Ignition Relay all about?
Your car ignition relay is an electrical component that switches power to your fuel and ignition systems. When you turn the key to the On position, the ignition relay switches allows power to be diverted to systems needed to operate your vehicle. The ignition coil then receives power from the battery and delivers it to your spark plugs. This process ignites the fuel and enables your vehicle to run.
Keep in mind:
- Ignition relay replacement is not a part of routine maintenance.
- A faulty ignition relay can drain your battery.
- Ignition switches that are improperly soldered can cause starting problems.
- A buildup of hard oxide on the relay can cause the switch to malfunction.
How it's done:
- The battery is disconnected and vehicle placed on jack stands
- The defective solenoid is removed
- The new solenoid is installed
- The battery is reconnected and the jack stands are removed
- The ignition is turned on to test the relay operation
Our recommendation:
The ignition relay is important to the operation of your vehicle. If your ignition relay is faulty, your vehicle will not start or a parasitic load will drain your battery when the ignition is off. If you suspect the ignition relay is faulty or your vehicle has ignition related problems, have one of our expert mechanics diagnose and repair it.
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Ignition Relay?
- Battery has a low charge
- Engine stalls while idling or slowing down
- Car won’t start, especially in hot weather
- Dashboard lights go off when car stalls
- Tachometer and speedometer go off and then come back on
How important is this service?
The ignition relay is an important component for vehicle operation. If your car is stalling while idling in traffic, there are potential safety issues. If your vehicle will not start because of a faulty ignition relay, you may be stranded. Have your ignition relay replaced once it has been deemed faulty.
