How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily resolve the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the car ignition key replacement by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part fails, you might require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to professionals.

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

On the side of the column that is closest to the driver, you will find an Allen head bolt that holds the assembly of the wiper and signal. Take this bolt off and set it away. Depending on the year of your car, it could have three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to take off the wiper/signal unit. You can make use of a specific tool to remove it or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

If the key can't be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin or you can call a locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They will be able to change the cylinder's key to match your current keys and will help you save the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks the key of your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It can also be bent or damaged. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder to get your car started.

The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it in the lock. You might be able smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for a limited time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is installed within the steering column tube flange, 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 expert.

After the cylinder is installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder, as it is usually necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to leave the job to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder inside your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it is properly started 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 vehicles still have these cylinders. If you're having difficulty starting your car or if the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car ignition replacement and provides power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with your car's computer system to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but over time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, the key of your car ignition lock will not be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

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

It's not difficult to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. A complete repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and place.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that is fitted to your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The main indications that a car's lock cylinder is about to be damaged is having trouble starting your car or locating positions where the key ignition replacement gets stuck when you attempt 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 impending failure.

As the cylinder age it is likely to be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to break down, damage or break, preventing the ignition of your car from working. The ignition may still work in some instances if you move it around. However, this could be a sign that something is wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder to see whether it's worn-out or if the key has been 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 are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will most likely require replacement.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder the ignition cylinder, since it can cost anywhere between $200 to $300. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need remove other components like the steering column, to reach the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if you have the proper tools and the right instructions.