How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key won't turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical component of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily solve the problem, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix car ignition it.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is much simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. However, there are a few older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be required to replace it in order to start the car. This is a task that should be left to experts.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the screws that hold the trim panels covering the upper and lower steering column. This will allow access to the area surrounding the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This requires the use of a specially designed tool or you can ghetto perform the task using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. A locksmith can also use an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key can't be inserted into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair move it to the ACC to release the pin on the lock cylinder.

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

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that is used to house and lock the key in your car. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It may be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or causing the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You may be able to use graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this only works for a limited period 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 by making sure it's properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an expert.

After the cylinder is installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's usually necessary to deactivate the steering column airbag for access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why you should leave the job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover for the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having difficulty starting your car or if the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the ignition key.

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

A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key could be stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are signs that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as quickly as you can.

It's easy to change the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. A full repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition lock repair cylinder on your own then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for Ignition and Key Replacement you at a time and place that's convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key to allow it to turn and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock may wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The main indicators that a lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting your car or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues are typically a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an imminent failure.

As the cylinder age it is prone to being damaged due to corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. In some instances, the ignition will still work if you move it in different directions however this is a warning sign that something could be wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder to see whether it's worn out, or the key is bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's any voltage. If you don't see any, then the switch and module are likely to require replacement.

It is best to engage a professional mechanic to Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder the ignition cylinder, as it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you might require removing other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on the model of your vehicle, the replacement procedure can also require disabling the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This is typically done at a dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself by using the right tools and instructions.