How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite may temporarily fix the problem but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, it might be necessary to replace it to start the car. This is not a job for the novice and is best left to professionals.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners holding the trim panels that cover the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in place. Remove this bolt and place it away. Based on the year of your car, you might have three or Repair ignition lock Cylinder four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can make use of a specific tool to do this or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.

If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either contact an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to release the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith can employ a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin to take it off. They can re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure 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 mechanical cylinder which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. Over time, the cylinder can wear out. It can also be bent or broken. In this case you'll need replace the cylinder in order to start your car.

A worn or broken cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it inside the lock. You could try using graphite or WD-40 to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a brief period of period of time.

If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the instructions above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is installed in the flange on the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you're not sure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert.

After the cylinder has been installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully installed within the cylinder. If your vehicle has 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 that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's usually necessary to deactivate the airbag in the steering column for access to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process is likely to involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a task best left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able to take off the steering column cover and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and begins to work properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you have trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is stuck it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder and fix the issue.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. 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 your car's computer to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key ignition replacement in position. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car won't be able slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be handled by a trained DIYer only if 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 with a complete repair Ignition lock Cylinder guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile ignition lock repair services mechanics complete the work for you at a time and place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which 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 eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

Some of the main indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting it or finding places where the key gets caught when you turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an imminent failure.

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

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

It is recommended to hire a professional 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 could have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at the dealership, but you can learn how to do it yourself using the right tools and instructions.