How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key isn't turning or turn, it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical portion of the ignition system, which sends energy to the engine of your car The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. Using WD-40 or graphite can temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only way to fix ignition switch it permanently.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Most modern cars no longer use a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch in the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more effective than the old lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be required to replace it to get the car started. This is a job that should be left to professionals.

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

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. You can use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize an instrument to remove bolts.

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

A auto locksmith ignition replacement can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can also 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 ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks the key in your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to start or stop your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It could also be bent or damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder will have to be replaced in order for your car to start.

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

If you have a new key to replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is placed within the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Check the manual of your car or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully installed inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it's often necessary to disable the steering column airbag in order to access the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a task best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to take off the steering column cover and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and that it is working correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If you have trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and supplies power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the van ignition repair cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. The switch is an electrical component that connects with your car's computer system to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, the key of your car will not be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. 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 your ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be handled by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're able to follow the right procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your car will help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair ignition lock Cylinder for you at a time and place that is convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that fits your key and allows it to turn and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

Some of the most common indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail are difficulty in starting it, or areas where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder is worn down and requires replacement. In some cases you may notice an alert light on your dashboard that signals the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older, it can become damaged by corrosion or simply wear and tear. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which can prevent your car ignition switch repair's ignition from functioning. The ignition may still work in some cases when you move it around. However this could indicate something is not right.

You can examine your ignition cylinder and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check 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 hire an experienced mechanic complete the task. It can be complicated due to the fact that you might have to remove other components like the steering column, in order to get to the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require disabling the airbag system, and then you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself with the appropriate tools and directions.