How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key will not turn and it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical which your key slides into, as opposed to the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.

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

The steering column can be removed

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They make use of a key to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This modern system functions better and is much simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are some older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, you may require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels covering the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This allows you to access the area around the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on your car's year, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic on top of 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. You can either use a special tool to remove it or ghetto it with an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key isn't able to be placed into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to press the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith will be able to use a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. They can re-key the ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to start or stop your car. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It can also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder will need to be replaced in order for your vehicle to begin.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or 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 in the lock. You might be able 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 you have an additional key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's properly fitted into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

After the cylinder has been installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace your auto ignition key replacement cylinder. This is due to the fact that it's usually necessary to deactivate the steering column airbag in order to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's best to leave this job to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able to 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 are no longer as important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems, older vehicles still have 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 could be the reason. It's relatively simple to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and fix the issue.

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

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move up and down, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates a little friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers get worn out the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

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

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be handled by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only when you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently by using a complete repair ignition lock cylinder (http://mspeech.kr/bbs/board.php?bo_table=705&wr_id=424202) manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the job for you at a convenient time and location.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to permit key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and repair Ignition lock cylinder remove the key.

The main indications that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to fail is difficulty getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. In some instances you may even see a warning light on your dashboard that signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages, it can become damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear out and break or damage and stop the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition might still work in certain situations when you move it around. However, this could indicate something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to determine whether it's worn out, or the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire connector 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 is best to engage a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it can cost anywhere between $200 to $300. It can be complicated due to the fact that you might have to remove other components, such as the steering column, in order to reach the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and instructions.