How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical portion of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite could temporarily resolve the issue however replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They make use of a key to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This modern system works better and is much simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, you may 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 column of the steering with the help of a screwdriver. This will allow you to access the area around the steering column.

On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you'll find an Allen head bolt that pins the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Take this bolt off and set it away. Depending on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to take off the wiper/signal unit. You can use a special tool to remove it or ghetto it using the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. A locksmith can also use the bolt removal kit.

If the key can't be put into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin or you can call a auto locksmith ignition replacement for assistance.

Locksmiths can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to cut the pin, then shave it down to remove it. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match your current keys and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to permit or block the start of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It can be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder in order to start your car.

A worn or broken cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or cause the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it inside the lock. You may be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this method only works for a certain amount of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is installed within the flange on the steering column tube, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is in and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll have to go through the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder since it is usually required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. This is why it's best to let a professional mechanic with experience. They will be able remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle. They will also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still make use of these cylinders. If your ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're having difficulty starting your car, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be the reason. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to rest the engine. Many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the 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 a little friction that keeps the key in place but over time, these small movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. If the tumblers wear down, your car's key won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. However, the key could become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.

Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's something that should be done by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're able to follow the right procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can complete the task quickly and correctly with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own make 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.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to allow the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The most common indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to go bad include difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has worn down and requires replacement. You may even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages it can be damaged through wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers to break down and break or damage and prevent the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition cylinder replacement near me could still function in some cases if you move it around. However, this could indicate that something is wrong.

You can examine the cylinder in your ignition and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you can probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is any voltage. If you do not find any, then the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder lock repair cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300, and it's generally recommended to let an expert mechanic do the task. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need to remove other components, such as the steering column, to reach the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system and reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This can be done at an authorized dealer however, you can learn how to do it yourself with the proper tools and instructions.