How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into, in contrast to the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.

Over time they "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily fix ignition switch the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only option.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much more efficiently and is less complicated than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.

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 unit for the wiper/signal unit in place. Remove this bolt and place it away. Based on the year of your car, it could have three or four small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. You can use a special tool to remove it or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. A locksmith can also use a bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to press the pin on the lock cylinder.

A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin from the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and locks the key in your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder will wear out. It may also break or become bent. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement to allow your vehicle to begin.

A worn or broken cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or causing the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it inside the lock. You may be able use some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this is only effective for Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder a short period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

After the cylinder is installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated into the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft system, you will be required to go through the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement is likely to involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and that it starts properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advances in push-to-start and remote start systems, they're common on older cars. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system which slides into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to rest the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with your car's computer system to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers will wear out. If the tumblers get worn out the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are indications that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as you can.

Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's a job that should be handled by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair Ignition lock Cylinder for you at a time and in a location that's convenient to you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock repair near me lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It is inserted into the ignition switch, which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

Some of the main indicators that your car's lock cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding locations where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These issues are typically a sign that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which could stop your car's ignition from working. The ignition might still work in some instances by moving it around. However this could indicate that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch 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 experienced mechanic complete the task. It's not easy due to the fact that you might have remove other components such as the steering column, to get to the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have the procedure for replacing it may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.