How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical part of the ignition system that supplies power to your vehicle's engine, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily fix the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only option.

The steering column can be removed

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use a key to start the car by pressing and rotating the switch on the dash panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it to start the Car ignition Locksmith. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to professionals.

With a screwdriver, take out the screws that hold the trim panels covering the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow you access to the area around your steering column.

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Based on the year of your car you might find three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, one will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. You can employ a special tool remove it or ghetto it using the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of the bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can call a locksmith for help.

A locksmith can use a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder or they can make use of a torch to cut the pin, then shave it down to take it off. They can change the cylinder's key to match your current keys and will save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replace 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 codes and matches your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. Over time, the cylinder can wear out. It could also break or get bent. If this happens, the cylinder will have to be replaced to allow your car to begin.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning the key, Car ignition Locksmith or with the ignition switch not advancing into 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 could try using some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, but this is only effective for a brief period of time.

If you have a brand new key to replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's properly placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

After the cylinder is installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts recommend that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it is often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. This is why it's best to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover for your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed using your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less essential in modern vehicles because of advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still widespread on older cars. If you're having trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix car ignition your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers wear down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will not be able slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

A damaged ignition cylinder typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key can also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be completed by a trained DIYer only if you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your vehicle will help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the job for you at a convenient time and place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical part that fits your key to allow it to turn and start your car. It's affixed to the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to allow key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

Some of the main indications that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding areas where the key gets caught when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is worn down and requires replacement. In certain instances you may even see a warning light on your dashboard, which signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder age it may be damaged due to corrosion or wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which will stop your car's ignition from working. The ignition may still work in some cases by moving it around. However it could indicate something is not right.

You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn out, or the key is bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter if there's voltage between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't see any voltage, then the module and switch likely need replacing.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may require removing other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. The replacement process may require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at a dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself with the appropriate tools and directions.