How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key 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, and not the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.

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.

The steering column can be removed

Most modern cars no longer use a steering column lock cylinder. They use a key to start the car by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. When this part fails, you may need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be left to professionals.

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

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Remove this bolt and place it away. Based 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 Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can use a special tool to do this or ghetto it with an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to depress the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave it down to remove it. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match your current keys and will help you save the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part which houses and Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder locks your car ignition barrel replacement's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It may also break or get bent. If this happens, the cylinder will need to be replaced in order for your vehicle to begin.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for a certain amount of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have a replacement key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's Repair ignition lock cylinder manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which indicates that the ignition switch is fully installed inside 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 since it is often required to deactivate the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it begins to work properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have become less important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still use them. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace your car ignition switch repair's ignition lock cylinder and repair the issue.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that connects to the ignition switch in your car and provides power to rest the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects to the computer in your car to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

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

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as it is possible.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, however, 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 will assist you in getting the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and location that is convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It is placed inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

Some of the main indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulty in starting it, or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn down and requires replacement. In certain instances you may even see a warning light on your dashboard that indicates the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages, it may be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which could make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. In some cases, the ignition will still work if you jostle it around, but this is a dangerous sign that something could be wrong.

You can examine the cylinder of your ignition and determine if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to determine 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, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is complicated by the fact that you may require removing other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on the model of your vehicle, the replacement procedure can also require disabling the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the right tools and the right instructions.