How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical component of the ignition system that supplies energy to the engine of your car, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily resolve the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Most modern cars no longer utilize 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 newer system works much more efficiently and is less complicated than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to start the car. This is a task that should be left to professionals.

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

On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that pins the assembly of the wiper and signal. Remove the bolt and set it away. Depending on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can employ a special tool accomplish this, or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.

If you are 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 release the pin on the lock cylinder, or call a locksmith ignition replacement cost for help.

A locksmith can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin down to take it off. They can re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to start or stop your car. The cylinder wears down over time. It may also become bent or damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced in order for your vehicle to begin.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You may be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for a certain amount of time.

If you have a brand repair ignition lock cylinder new key to replace the ignition cylinder and follow the instructions above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you're not sure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

After the cylinder is installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll have to go through the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder, as it is usually necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to let a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and is working correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-tostart systems, they're widespread on older cars. If your car's ignition switch is stuck, or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be the cause. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix car ignition the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that slides into the ignition and key replacement switch of your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electronic component that connects with your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, allowing your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but in time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. If the tumblers get worn out, the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A damaged ignition key replacement cylinder usually the first indication of trouble in most vehicles. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as it is possible.

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

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and may eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. You might even see an alert 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 simply wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which will make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. In some instances the ignition may work if you move it in different directions however this is a warning indication that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, you could 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, the module and switch will most likely need to be replaced.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder the ignition cylinder, since it can cost anywhere between $200 to $300. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you might have remove other parts such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the right tools and the right instructions.