How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car ignition locked key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch which is an electrical part of the ignition system.

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily fix the issue but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.

The steering column can be removed

The majority of modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of a key to start the car by pressing and turning a switch in the dash panel. This modern system works better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to get the car started. This isn't a task for the novice and should be left to professionals.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels that cover the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you access to the area around your steering column.

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in place. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your car, it could have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch. Take these screws off and put them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, you'll need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. You can make use of a specific tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.

If the key isn't able to be put into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to depress the pin on the lock cylinder, or call a locksmith for help.

A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to turn on or off your car. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It may also become bent or damaged. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement to allow your car to begin.

A worn or broken cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it in the lock. You may be able to use graphite or WD-40 to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a brief period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is seated within the steering column tube flange and is properly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair Ignition lock cylinder manual or an expert.

After the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition key replacement switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace your ignition lock repair services cylinder. This is because it's usually necessary to deactivate the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely involve taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and begins to work properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles due to advancements in remote start and push-tostart systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having trouble starting your car ignition locked or if the ignition switch is not working, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the problem.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system which slides into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate components. The switch is an electrical device that connects to your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates a tiny friction that helps keep the key in place but in time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key can also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.

It's not difficult to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. A full repair manual for your vehicle will help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the job for you at a time and place.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits on your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.

The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble starting your car or locating locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues are typically a sign that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some cases, you might even notice an indicator light on your dashboard, which signals the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear out and break or damage, preventing the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition could still function in some cases when you move it around. However it could indicate that something is wrong.

You can test your ignition lock repair cylinder to determine whether it's worn out, or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage, the module and switch will likely require replacement.

Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's usually best to let an experienced mechanic complete the job. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The replacement procedure may also require you to disable the airbag system and reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by a dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself using the appropriate tools and directions.