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 tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, as opposed to the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily resolve the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that utilize the traditional ignition Key won't come Out lock cylinder. If this component fails, you may need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is not a job for the novice and is best left to professionals.

Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels covering the upper and lower steering column. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.

On the side of the column closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that holds the wiper/signal assembly in place. Remove the bolt and set it away. Based on the year of your car, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can employ a special tool accomplish this, or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example 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 may be stuck. You can try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to depress the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can contact a auto locksmith ignition replacement for help.

A locksmith will be able to use a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin from the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match your current keys and will save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It can also break or become bent. In this case you'll need replace the cylinder in order to get your car running.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, put it in the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this method is only effective for a limited time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is placed within the steering column tube flange, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you are unsure of the correct alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert.

After the cylinder is installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, ignition key won't come out you will have to perform the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, since it is usually required to deactivate the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the steering column cover and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it is working correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advances in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still common on older cars. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to the computer in your car and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move up and down, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key could also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as it is possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it's a job that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your vehicle will help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you are not comfortable 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 place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is affixed to your key and allows it to turn and start your car ignition switch repair. It is inserted into the ignition switch which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to allow the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The main signs that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble starting your car or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These are usually a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You may even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder age it may be damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which will make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. The ignition might still work in some instances when you move it around. However, this could be a sign that something is not right.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see whether it's worn out, or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you could back-probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's the voltage. If you don't see any or no voltage, the switch and module likely need replacing.

It is best to engage a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. It can be complicated because you may have remove other components, such as the steering column, in order to get to the ignition cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to turn off the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at the dealership however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the right tools and instructions.