How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch which is the electrical component of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.

Over time they "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite could temporarily fix the problem however replacement is the only permanent solution.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of a key to start the car ignition replacement by pressing and rotating a switch in the dashboard panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, you will require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to professionals.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This will allow access to the area surrounding the steering column.

On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you might have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a specific tool or you can ghetto to do it using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. A locksmith can also use the bolt removal kit.

If the key can't be inserted into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to press the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith can employ a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder, or they can use a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin to remove it. They can change the cylinder's key to match your existing keys and will help you save the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. Over time the cylinder will wear out. It may also break or become bent. In this case you'll need to replace the cylinder to get your car started.

A damaged or worn cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or causing the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position or RUN or does a new ignition switch require a new key warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it inside the lock. You could try using some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, however, this is only for a short period of time.

If you've got a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly placed in the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you're not sure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder since it is often required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a job best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it begins to work correctly 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 systems older cars still use these cylinders. If you're having trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder, and then fix ignition switch the issue.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition and key replacement key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in most cars. However, the key could be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the ignition cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's something that should be done by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only when you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair ignition lock cylinder (simply click the up coming article) for you at a time and place that is convenient for you.

Test the ignition lock repair services Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

Some of the main signs that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulties in starting it or areas where the key is caught when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. You may even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down and break or damage and prevent your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition might still work in some cases if you move it around. However it could be a sign that something is wrong.

You can examine your ignition cylinder and see whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check if there's voltage between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any voltage or a switch, the module are likely to need to be replaced.

It is best to engage a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder as it could cost between $200 and $300. It can be complicated because you may have to remove other components like the steering column to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on the model of your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by an authorized dealer. However, you could do it yourself if you have the right tools and instructions.