How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to 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 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 solution.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not use steering column locks. They use keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system works better and is much simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this part fails, you might require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be left to experts.

With a screwdriver, take out the screws that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper steering column. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.

On the side of the column closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.

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

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin, or you can call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave it down to take it off. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match your current keys and will help you save the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the mechanical cylinder which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It could be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car ignition switch replacement.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder can be seen in problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, try using it inside the lock. You may be able use some WD-40 or graphite to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a limited period of time.

If you've got a new key to replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure that it is 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, check your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set within the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll need to perform the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, since it is typically required to deactivate the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job best left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also make sure that the ignition and key replacement lock cylinder is programmed with your key and is working correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

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

The ignition the cylinder is a part 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 the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to the computer in your car and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every 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 to slide into or turn the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil in most cars. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the Ignition lock jammed lock cylinder. These are signs that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the proper procedure for your car's specific make and model. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder on your own make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and place that is convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical part that is fitted to your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It is placed inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft number to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

Some of the main signs that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty in starting it, or areas where the key is caught when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. In some cases, you might even notice a warning light on your dashboard that signals the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which will prevent your car's ignition from working. In some instances the ignition may function if you jerk it around but this is a dangerous indication that something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any voltage, the module and switch will most likely need to be replaced.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it could cost between $200 to $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you could need to remove other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. The replacement procedure may also require you to disable the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at the dealership however, you can learn how to do it yourself using the right tools and instructions.