How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into, in contrast to the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.

Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. Using WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be necessary to replace it to allow the car to start. This is not a job for the novice and should be left to a professional.

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

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Remove the bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small flat head screws that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This requires the use of a specific tool, or you could perform the task using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin or you can contact a locksmith for help.

A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with a torch and then shave it to take it off the lock. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to start or stop your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It can also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced to allow your car to start.

A worn or broken cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or causing the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, however, this is only for a short period of time.

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

After the cylinder is installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully installed in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is often necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. Additionally, Repair ignition Lock cylinder the replacement is likely to involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They will be able remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and is working properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant 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 stuck it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system which connects to the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects with your car's computer to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate in 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 have worn down, your car's key will not be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as you can.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. You can do the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. 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 time and place.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It is placed inside the ignition switch which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to authorize the key to turn. The auto ignition key replacement lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and may eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In some instances you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard that indicates the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder age it can be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. The ignition could still function in certain situations by moving it around. However, this could indicate that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check if there's voltage between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage then the switch and module will likely require replacement.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300, and it's generally recommended to have an expert mechanic do the job. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition lock repair services cylinder. This is usually handled by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if have the right tools and instructions.