How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key will not turn and it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. Unlike the switch, which is the electrical portion of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into.

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

Removal of the steering column

Most modern cars no longer utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer method is easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it to get the car started. This is not an activity for the beginner and is best left to a professional.

Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper columns of the steering using a screwdriver. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Remove this bolt and place it away. Based on the year of your car, it could have 3 or 4 small flat head screws that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put 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 using the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of a bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin or you can contact a locksmith for help.

A auto locksmith ignition replacement will be able to use a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off the lock cylinder with an electric torch, and then shave it to take it off the lock. They can re-key the cylinder to match your existing keys and save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to permit or block the start of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It may also break or become bent. In this situation you'll need replace the cylinder in order to start your car.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it inside the lock. You could try using some WD-40 or graphite to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a short period of period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have a replacement key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is placed within the steering column tube flange and is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is usually required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely require taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. Because of this, it is a job best left to a skilled mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able to ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it begins to work correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still make use of these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're having difficulty starting your car the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder may be the cause. It's relatively simple to replace the ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, over time, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, the key of your car won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key may also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as possible.

It's not difficult to change the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. A complete repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own then let one of our ASE certified mobile ignition lock repair services mechanics complete the repair Ignition Lock Cylinder for you at a time and in a location that is convenient for you.

Test 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 vehicle. It's affixed to the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The most obvious signs that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulty in starting it, or locations where the key gets caught when you turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages it can be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear out and break and stop your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition lock repair may still work in certain situations when you move it around. However it could indicate something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to determine if it's worn out or the key is bent or damaged. If you have 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 the voltage. If you don't find any voltage then the switch and module will most likely require replacement.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's usually best to hire an expert mechanic do the task. The process is complicated due to the fact that you might 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 disabling the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by an authorized dealer. However, you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and instructions.