How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily solve the problem however, replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Removing the Steering Column

The majority of modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be required to replace it in order to get the car started. This isn't a task for the beginner and should be left to an experienced professional.

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

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you might have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the wiper/signal unit. You can employ a special tool remove it or ghetto it with an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

If the key can't be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin, or you can contact a locksmith for help.

A locksmith can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder or they can use a torch to cut the pin, then shave the pin to take it off. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match the keys you have and will save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which is used to house and lock the key to your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It could also be bent or broken. In this case, you will need to replace the cylinder to get your car running.

A damaged or worn cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or causing the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have a spare, try using it inside the lock. You might be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for a limited time.

If you have a new key to replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert.

After the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch has been completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you'll have to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is often required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's best to leave the job to an experienced mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder inside your vehicle. They will also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still widespread on older cars. If you're having difficulty starting your car 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 portion of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn auto ignition key replacement coil in the majority of cars. The key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's something that should be done by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. You can do the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair ignition lock cylinder (Crocusear9.bravejournal.net) guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the job for you at a time and location.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It is placed 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, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

Some of the main indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail are difficulty starting it or finding places where the key is caught when you turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some instances, you might even notice an alert light on your dashboard, which signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which could prevent your car's ignition from functioning. In some instances the ignition may work if you jostle it around however this is a warning indicator that something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is any voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will likely require replacement.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's generally recommended to hire a professional mechanic perform the job. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need to remove other components such as the steering column, in order to reach the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if you have the proper tools and instructions.