How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key will not turn, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical component 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, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily resolve the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the car ignition lock by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is much simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, it might be required to replace it to get the car started. This is not an activity for the novice and is best left to an experienced professional.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners that hold the trim panels that cover the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and place them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This requires the use of a specially designed tool or to do it using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress the pin on the lock cylinder.

A locksmith ignition replacement cost can use a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder. They can use a torch to cut the pin and then shave it down to remove it. They can re-key the cylinder to match your existing keys and will save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and secures the key to your vehicle. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It may also break or become bent. In this case you'll need replace the cylinder to start your car.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning your 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, consider using it inside the lock. You might be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, however this technique only works for so long.

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

Once the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully seated within the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, since it is often necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely require removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave the job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able remove the steering column cover and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they are still common on older cars. If your ignition switch or key is stuck, or you're having trouble starting the vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be the reason. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and fix the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the term "ignition cylinder lock repair switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with your car's computer to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, over time, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers wear down the key will not be able slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as it is possible.

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

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is placed inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The most obvious indications that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulties in starting it or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an imminent failure.

As the cylinder age, it may be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear down and break or damage and prevent your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition could still function in some instances if you move it around. However, this could indicate that something is not right.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to see if it's worn out or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't see any, the switch and module are likely to require replacement.

It is best to engage a professional mechanic to repair ignition lock Cylinder the ignition cylinder as it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. The process is complicated by the fact that you may require removing other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have, the replacement procedure can be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll need to reprogram 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 using the appropriate tools and directions.