How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch which is the electrical part of the ignition system, which sends the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. The use of WD-40 or graphite may temporarily fix the problem but replacement is the only way to fix ignition switch it permanently.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This modern system is simpler and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part fails, you might require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.

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

On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that holds the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might see three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. You can employ a special tool do this or ghetto it using 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 try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin, or call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match your current keys and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It may also become bent or damaged. In this situation you'll need replace the cylinder in order to get your car started.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or causing the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning light to illuminate on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it in the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this is only effective for a limited period of time.

If you have a brand new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is properly fitted into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an automotive expert.

After the cylinder has been installed then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, since it is usually required to shut off the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's best to leave the job to a mechanic with experience. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder into your car. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though ignition lock cylinders have been less significant in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older vehicles still have them. If your car's ignition switch or Repair ignition Lock cylinder key is stuck, or if you're having difficulty starting your car, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be the reason. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the issue.

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

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, allowing your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key may become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible.

It's easy to replace your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. A complete repair manual for your car can help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair ignition lock cylinder (m1bar.com) for you at a time and location that's convenient to you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's affixed to the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and repair Ignition lock cylinder reads the anti-theft code to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock will wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

Some of the main signs that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding locations where the key gets caught when you turn it. These issues are typically a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You may even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can prevent your car's ignition from functioning. In some cases the ignition may work if you jostle it in different directions, but this is a dangerous sign that something could be wrong.

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

It is recommended to hire a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost anywhere between $200 to $300. The process is complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have the procedure for replacing it may also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and the right instructions.