How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car ignition replacement's keys will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, and not 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 resolve the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix car ignition it.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might require replacing it to be able to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to professionals.

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

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a specific tool, or you could to do it using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of the bolt removal kit.

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

A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They will be able to change the cylinder's key to match the keys you have 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 affixed to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It may also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced to allow your car to begin.

The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it inside the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for a limited time.

If you have a brand new key to replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps outlined 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. Consult your car's manual or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

Once the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch is completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column for access to the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave the job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able remove the cover for the steering column and then properly install a new ignition cylinder replacement near me lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and that it starts properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have become less important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older vehicles still have these cylinders. If you're having difficulty getting your car started or the ignition switch is not working it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and fix ignition switch the issue.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system which connects to the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with the computer in your car ignition barrel replacement near me to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, allowing your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a little friction that helps keep the key in place, but in time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key could also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as you can.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is something that should be completed by a trained DIYer only if you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can complete the task quickly and accurately with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair ignition lock cylinder - try here, for you at a time and place that's convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that is affixed to your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is inserted into the ignition switch which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft number to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition 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.

Some of the main indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting it or finding areas where the key is caught when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. You may even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an imminent failure.

As the cylinder age it can be damaged through wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which could make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. In certain instances the ignition may function if you jerk it around but this is a warning sign that something could be wrong.

You can examine your ignition cylinder and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is any voltage. If you don't find any voltage, then the switch and module likely need replacing.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it could cost between $200 to $300. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need remove other components like the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have, the replacement procedure can also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.