Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned in order for the car to begin. It operates through a chamber and springs that can be damaged by environmental elements like low or high temperatures.

If your ignition switch, key or both will not turn, it could indicate that the lock's cylinder needs to be replaced. This task should be left to an experienced auto locksmith.

Take off the Steering Column Covers

Ignition lock cylinders are mechanical components that allow keys to be inserted into the ignition switch and turned in order to start the car. They are prone to be damaged and fail due to various reasons, including if the key is inserted too forcefully or placed in the wrong place. They can also break down and Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair fail due to corrosion or other causes. If your ignition cylinder isn't working and isn't turning, it's time to replace it. This is a simple job but you'll have to take off the steering column cover and Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair the airbag cover. The process is risky and complicated, and the replacement cylinder might require special tools to put in.

The ignition cylinder is located in the middle of the column, where the steering wheel is attached. It has two screws on the bottom and a clip on the side to hold it in place. Remove these screws before you begin working on the cylinder in order to prevent it from falling off and getting lost.

After you have the screws removed, you can pull the plastic retainers from the lower part of the cover. There's also a metal retainer that clips onto the top of the cover to hold it in position. You may have to pull the cover off of the steering wheel in order to take off the lower plastic tabs.

They can be removed by taking off one of the retaining screws and then bending the tab outward a bit. If the tab is broken completely it can be replaced by using a piece of perforated metal strapping that can be found in most hardware shops. You'll need U-clips to attach the new "tab" at the bottom. They can be bought at any automotive parts store.

Once the plastic tabs have been removed and the airbag cover has been removed, you are able to access the hole for the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock by using the 1/16-inch Allen wrench and push the cylinder retaining bolt. Then, you can pull the cylinder out. It may be necessary to replace it with a specially designed cylinder to protect against theft.

Remove the Ignition Cylinder

While many modern vehicles have transitioned to push-to-start systems, there are still a good number of cars on the road that need an ignition lock cylinder. This mechanical cylinder is housed inside the electrically powered component called the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" the anti-theft code inside the car key so that it can start.

It's the right time to contact an auto locksmith if your vehicle shows signs of a failing lock cylinder. A faulty ignition lock cylinder could cause a variety of issues, including a lack in power from the engine, and difficulties in inserting or removing keys. Keys that are damaged by wear can cause damage to wafer tumblers that let the cylinder to turn. This can cause a blockage and stops the vehicle from beginning.

Depending on the model and make the cover of your ignition switch could be secured by either a clip or screw. Utilizing a screwdriver to loosen the screw, then remove the cover to expose the cylinder for ignition lock. It is typically a steel cylinder about the size one quarter.

To remove the cylinder, you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Make use of a drill that's slightly larger than the key slot and drill through the cylinder until it breaks free. You'll then be able to pull the cylinder out and replace it with a new.

The procedure for removing the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so you'll need to consult the service manual to determine what steps are required. After the cylinder is removed, you can install your new ignition switch.

Before you can do that you'll need to replace the covers on the steering column. It is also necessary to tighten two screws on top of the lock assembly that keep it in place. After that, the installation of your new ignition cylinder should be fairly simple.

Take off the Ignition Switch

The ignition lock repair services cylinder and switch are separate components of the electrical system in your car. While they may seem like they are, they can be repaired or replaced independently of one other. The switch is electrical and supplies the power to your vehicle. The cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slide into. Generally, you will be able to discern that the cylinder for ignition is not working properly by its inability to turn the key.

If the cylinder fails, the pins inside the tumbler may wear out, making it difficult or impossible to insert or pull your key. If you find that your key has become worn and won't turn it, the best choice is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.

Based on the make of your vehicle it could have an anchor bolt or screw that secures the switch and removing it will expose the cylinder that controls the ignition. Make sure to consult the manual for your car before making the attempt at home. It is a risk and result in damage to the steering column or plastic covers. The switch is also bundled with the airbag wiring. Tampering with it can cause serious injury.

To remove the ignition coil, you'll have to remove it using the help of a drill. It is also possible to use pliers, however it's more difficult. If the ignition cylinder becomes loose, you can replace it with a brand new one from your local auto store.

After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll need to connect all of the wires to the electrical connections in the steering column, and then test the function. It's usually easier to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition key, and then start the vehicle. You can reconnect the battery after the ignition has worked. If your vehicle is still unable to turn on, you will need to have the immobilizer system reset. This can be accomplished by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complicated procedure that should be left to professionals.

Install the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch in your car sends out a signal telling the engine it's time for it to start. The key is then inserted into a lock-cylinder to initiate this process. However the pins and waxes in the cylinder can wear out over time. It could be difficult or impossible to start your vehicle if the cylinder becomes stuck.

If your car's ignition key doesn't turn, it's likely the cylinder for ignition is damaged and requires replacement. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder with a new one, meaning your new key will function with the original ignition switch, and will be capable of triggering the engine startup signal.

To remove the old lock you need to press the release pin that is located at the bottom of your assembly and slide the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder is unable to move out, try pressing in the release pin, or use a small anti-rotation button underneath the face of cylinder. You may also try pushing in on the cylinder with your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can push it out.

Once you've removed the old cylinder, put in the new one and then turn on the vehicle to make sure whether it's functioning. If it's not, you can reconnect any trim pieces that you took off to access the cylinder and follow an anti-theft procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.

The lock on the ignition cylinder might not be as crucial to the functionality of your vehicle as it once was but there are situations that require you to replace it. Contact a professional like an locksmith or an automotive dealer to ensure that the job is done without damaging the steering column or other parts of your vehicle. It's important to make sure that the new ignition is correctly coded so that your car ignition lock recognizes it as an authentic key. This usually requires an expert or a dealer to perform this process of learning.