How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch which is the electrical portion of the ignition system, which sends the power to the engine of your vehicle, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into.

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

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that are used to start the car by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This newer method is simpler and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. When this part is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with a screwdriver. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in position. Remove this bolt and place it away. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can either employ a special tool accomplish this, or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. A locksmith will also be capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can either call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to depress the pin of the lock cylinder.

A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with 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 the purchase of a new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The auto ignition key replacement Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to allow you to start or stop your car. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It could also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced in order for your car to begin.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, try using it inside the lock. You might be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for so long.

If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair ignition lock cylinder (just click the next article) manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition key replacement cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest replacing the ignition cylinder since it is typically required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should let a mechanic with experience. They'll be able remove the steering column cover and properly install a new ignition lock repair near me lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and is working properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still use them. If you have trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your car ignition lock's ignition lock cylinder and repair the issue.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and supplies power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. The switch is the electronic component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and the key creates a little friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key may be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as is possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is something that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can complete the task quickly and correctly with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and place that is convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's located inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an imminent failure.

As the cylinder ages it may be damaged by corrosion or simply wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down and break, preventing the ignition of your car ignition switch repair from unlocking. In some instances the ignition may function if you jerk it in different directions however this is a warning indication that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see if it's worn out or if the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any or no voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It is best to engage a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it can cost between $200 to $300. The process is complicated by the fact that you may need to remove other components to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The process of replacing it could require you to turn off the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if you have the proper tools and the right instructions.