Service and Cost
Typical Cost
The cost to replace or repair an ignition relay can vary depending on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, and whether you choose an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket part. Generally, the cost for replacing an ignition relay can range from $20 to $100 for the part itself.
Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and prices can vary significantly based on your specific situation. It's always a good idea to get a few quotes from different repair shops to ensure you're getting a fair price.
Typical Service Procedure
When dealing with the replacement or repair of an ignition relay in a vehicle, several components and steps are typically involved. Here's a general overview of what is usually included in this process:
1. Diagnosis: Our technicians perform a thorough diagnosis to confirm that the relay is indeed the issue. This includes checking for symptoms such as the engine not starting, intermittent starting problems, or electrical issues related to the ignition system.
2. Ignition Relay The ignition relay itself is a small electrical component that controls the power to the ignition system and other critical components. It is usually located in the fuse box or relay panel.
3. Tools and Equipment Our professional technicians use specialized hand tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, and socket sets to access and replace the relay. We utilize high-quality multimeters to test the relay and related circuits to ensure proper function.
4. Replacement Relay We only use high-quality ignition relays that match the specifications of your vehicle's make and model. All our replacement parts meet or exceed OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) standards to ensure compatibility and reliability.
5. Accessing the Relay The process involves carefully accessing your vehicle's fuse box or relay panel, which may require removing panels or covers.
6. Removal and Installation Our technicians carefully remove the faulty relay and install the new one, ensuring a secure connection and proper placement.
7. Testing After installation, we thoroughly test the ignition system to ensure that the new relay is functioning correctly. This includes starting the vehicle and checking for any electrical issues.
8. Additional Checks We perform comprehensive checks to ensure there are no underlying issues that could have caused the relay to fail, such as wiring problems or other electrical faults.
9. Documentation We maintain detailed records of all repairs and replacements, including the date of service and the part number of the new relay for future reference.
10. Warranty: We stand behind our work with a comprehensive warranty on both parts and labor, providing you peace of mind and protection against future failures.
These steps ensure that your ignition relay is properly replaced or repaired, restoring your vehicle's ignition system to full functionality.
What is a Ignition Relay and What Does It Do?
The ignition relay is an essential component in a vehicle's ignition system. It acts as an electrical switch that uses a small amount of current from the ignition switch to control a larger amount of current needed to activate the starter motor. Here’s a more detailed explanation of its function and importance:
1. Function: When you turn the ignition key or press the start button, a small electrical current is sent to the ignition relay. This current energizes the relay, which then closes its internal contacts. This action allows a larger current to flow from the battery to the starter motor, enabling the engine to crank and start.
2. Importance: The ignition relay is crucial because it allows the ignition switch to control the high current needed by the starter motor without having to handle that current directly. This reduces wear and tear on the ignition switch and ensures that the high current is safely managed.
3. Location: The ignition relay is typically located in the vehicle's fuse box or relay panel, which can be found under the hood or inside the cabin, depending on the vehicle model.
4. Symptoms of a Faulty Ignition Relay: If the ignition relay fails, the vehicle may not start, or there may be intermittent starting issues. Other symptoms can include a clicking sound when turning the key, or the starter motor not receiving power.
5. Replacement: If the ignition relay is faulty, it usually needs to be replaced. This is generally a straightforward process, but the exact procedure can vary depending on the vehicle make and model.Overall, the ignition relay is a small but vital part of the vehicle's starting system, ensuring that the engine can be started reliably and safely.
Signs of a bad Ignition Relay
The ignition relay is a critical component in a vehicle's ignition system, responsible for sending power from the battery to the ignition system and other components. When the ignition relay begins to fail, it can lead to various issues. Here are some common signs of a failing ignition relay:
1. Vehicle Won't Start: One of the most obvious signs of a failing ignition relay is that the vehicle won't start. If the relay fails, it may not send power to the ignition system, preventing the engine from cranking.
2. Intermittent Starting Problems: If the relay is failing intermittently, you might experience occasional starting problems. The vehicle may start fine sometimes and not at all at other times.
3. Clicking Sound from the Relay: A clicking sound when you turn the key in the ignition can indicate a problem with the relay. This sound may occur if the relay is trying to engage but is unable to send power to the ignition system.
4. Stalling: A failing ignition relay can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly. This happens if the relay cuts off power to the ignition system while the vehicle is running.
5. No Noise from the Fuel Pump: The ignition relay often powers the fuel pump. If you don't hear the usual hum of the fuel pump when you turn the key to the "on" position, it could be due to a faulty relay.
6. Dashboard Lights Flickering: If the relay is failing, you might notice flickering or dimming of the dashboard lights when you try to start the vehicle.
7. Burning Smell or Visible Damage: In some cases, a failing relay might produce a burning smell or show visible signs of damage, such as melted plastic or burnt contacts.
8. Electrical Accessories Not Working: Since the ignition relay can also power other electrical components, you might notice that certain accessories, like the radio or power windows, are not functioning properly.If you suspect that the ignition relay is failing, it's important to have it inspected and replaced if necessary. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious issues, including being stranded with a vehicle that won't start.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
