How to Test A Ignition Switch?

The ignition switch is responsible for turning on the circuit or signal that causes the vehicle to start and the ignition switch application is not only for cars, but also for tractors, trucks, excavators, and other heavy duty equipment. If you're calculating more to replace the ignition switch, or just want to remove the rotary column to do some troubleshooting, you need to pay attention to which wires go to the ignition switch.

How to test a ignition switch?

A bad ignition switch is not good for your vehicle for sure. There are two ways to know if your ignition is bad. The first one is using a multimeter and the other one is a test light. The ignition switch mainly provides current to the car's ECU and ignition coil, which means that there are two wires coming out of your ignition switch. 

1. When using a multimeter, place the ignition switch in the off position. Connect the positive probe of the multimeter, and the power feed and negative wires to any unpainted metal in the car. Next, try starting and note the reading on the multimeter. Any reading below 90% of battery voltage means there is a problem with your ignition system.

2. In the absence of a multimeter, a 12V test lamp can be used. Start by turning the key to the off position and disconnect the module's cable connector and the starter motor solenoid's terminals. This ensures that your car will not start when you turn the key to the on position.Now, turn the key to the starting position. Connect the red wire to the test voltage and to the ignition coil battery post. Turn the key to the start position, connect the ignition switch white wire. If your ignition switch is good, the light will turn on, otherwise, your ignition switch is bad.

Undoubtedly, there are many ignition switch suppliers for your cars, but if you’re looking for an ignition switch for your tractor, truck, excavator, or other heavy duty equipment, MyMRO provides you with low cost and various types of replacement ignition switches, such as, john deere ignition switch, which is designed to work every time and ensure and exact fit for easy replacement. Meanwhile, MyMRO also provides kubota ignition switch, hitachi ignition switch, caterpillar ignition switch and so on.

What wires go to ignition switch?

If you own a modern vehicle, it likely has a four-wire ignition switch. These switches usually have four terminals labeled: 

1. BATT(battery): there is usually a thick red wire connected here that is always powered.

2. IGN (ignition input): this is the main terminal that controls the vehicle's ignition and other electronics. It can be connected with a yellow or red wire.

3. ST(start): this terminal connects to the starter solenoid. It may have brown or yellow wires.

4. ACC (attachment):this terminal powers accessories in your car, such as lights, radio, and wipers. It usually has purple wires.

The wire colors listed above may vary depending on the make and model of your car, so it's important to be specific to where the wires should be connected. The BATT wire is almost always red, but you may find three other colors such as white, green, and black.