How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key won't turn or turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical component of the ignition system, which sends the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.

Over time they "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily resolve the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only option.

Removal of the steering column

The majority of modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning a switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, you will require replacing it to be able to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to professionals.

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.

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in place. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Based on the year of your car key ignition problems, you may find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. You can either make use of a specific tool to remove it or ghetto it with an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to release the pin of the lock cylinder.

Locksmiths can use a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave the pin down to take it off. They can change the cylinder's key to match your existing keys and save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and Car Key Ignition Problems matches your key to allow you to start or stop your car. The cylinder wears down over time. It could also break or become bent. In this case you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car ignition lock running.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder can cause problems turning the key, car key ignition Problems or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it inside the lock. You might be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, however this method only works for a limited time.

If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to make sure the cylinder is correctly aligned.

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 is fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll have to follow the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder, since it is typically required to shut off the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover for the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck, or you're having trouble starting the vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical component that connects to your car's computer to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to move 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. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car will not be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

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

It's easy to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the proper procedure for your car's specific model and make. A complete repair manual for your car can help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the job for you at a time and place.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical part that fits on your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It's mounted inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.

The most obvious indications 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 issues are typically an indication that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an imminent failure.

As the cylinder ages it can be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers to wear down, damage or break and stop the ignition of your car from working. The ignition may still work in certain situations by moving it around. However, this could be a sign that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's voltage. If you do not find any or no voltage, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement.

It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it could cost between $200 to $300. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need remove other parts such as the steering column to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if you have the right tools and instructions.