Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the car. It is controlled by a chamber that has springs that can be damaged due to environmental factors such as high or low temperatures.

If your ignition switch keys, or even the key won't turn it could be an indication that the lock's cylinder needs to be replaced. It is best to delegate this task to a professional automotive locksmith.

Take off the Steering Column Covers

Ignition lock-cylinders, or ignition lock-cylinders, are mechanical devices that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to turn off a vehicle. They are prone to fail and wear out due to various reasons, for instance if the key is inserted too forcefully or in the wrong position. They can also fail due to corrosion, and other causes. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if you notice it's not functioning. You can do it yourself however it's a job that requires you to remove the covers for the steering column and the airbag cover. This process can be risky and difficult and the replacement engine may require specialized tools to install.

The ignition cylinder is in the middle of the column where the steering wheel attaches. The clip and two screws at the bottom secure the cylinder in place. Take these screws off before you begin working on the cylinder in order to prevent it from falling off and becoming lost.

Once the screws are removed, you can take out the plastic retainers on the bottom of the cover. There's also a metal retainer that clips into the top of the cover to hold it in position. You may have to pull the cover off of the steering wheel to remove the lower plastic tabs.

You can break these off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab is damaged completely it can be repaired with a piece perforated metal strapping that's found at a majority of hardware stores. You'll need U-clips to attach the new "tab" at the bottom. These can be purchased at any auto parts shop.

After removing the tabs made of plastic and pulling back the airbag cover, it is now possible to reach the ignition cylinder. Utilizing the 1/16-inch allen screw to open the ignition lock and push it onto the cylinder retaining pin. You can then remove the cylinder. It is possible to replace it with a special one for an anti-theft system.

Take off the Ignition Cylinder

Despite the fact that a lot of vehicles are now equipped with push-to-start technology, there are some vehicles on the market that require an ignition lock. This mechanical cylinder is contained in the electrically powered part referred to as the "ignition switch", which locks the ignition, and "reads the anti-theft code within the car key before allowing it to start.

It could be the right time to contact an auto locksmith if your vehicle is showing signs of a broken lock cylinder. A malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder can cause numerous issues, such as a lack in power from the engine, and difficulties in inserting or removing keys. Keys that are damaged by wear can affect the wafer tumblers that allow for the ignition cylinder to turn and create a blockage that stops your vehicle from starting.

Based on the model and the make the cover for your ignition switch may be held on by either a clip or screw. By using a screwdriver, loosen up the screw, and then slide the cover off to reveal the cylinder that locks the ignition. It is typically a metal cylinder that is about the size of a quarter.

To remove the cylinder, you must drill the pin that holds it. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the slot for the key, and drill through it until the cylinder is broken. Then, you can remove the cylinder and replace it.

The exact process for removing the ignition cylinder varies by manufacturer, so it is necessary to review your service manual to find out what steps are required. After the cylinder is removed, you are now able to install the new ignition switch.

Before you can do that, you'll need to reinstall the covers on the steering column. Two screws are required to hold the lock assembly in place. After you've done that the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.

Take off the Ignition Switch

The ignition switch and the cylinder lock are two different parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they appear similar, the two are able to be repaired or replaced independently of one other. The switch is the part that sends power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into. In general, you can tell the ignition cylinder is failing because it is unable to turn your key.

When the cylinder is damaged, the pins inside the tumbler may wear out and make it difficult or impossible to pull out or insert your key. If you notice that your key has become damaged and isn't turning the way you want it to, the best option is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by an experienced locksmith.

The ignition cylinder is uncovered by taking off the bolt or screw depending on the model of the vehicle you're using. It is essential to check the service manual of your vehicle prior to trying this at home, as it can be dangerous and cause damage to the steering column and plastic covers. The switch is also connected with the wiring for airbags. If you mess with it, it could cause serious injuries.

To remove the ignition coil, you will have to remove it using the help of a drill. You may also use pliers to remove it from the rest of the assembly however, this is typically more difficult than using the screwdriver. When the ignition cylinder becomes loose it is possible to replace it with a brand new one at your local auto shop.

After installing the new ignition cylinder you'll have to connect all of the wires to the electrical connection in the steering column and test the function. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery first, then take the ignition key and start the engine. Once the ignition is working it's time to reconnect the battery and try it again. If it still won't start it is necessary to have the immobilizer system reset by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be left to professionals.

Install the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch in your car sends out an alert to the engine it's time to begin. The key is then inserted into a lock-cylinder in order to start this process. However, the pins and waxes in the cylinder can get worn out over time. It can be difficult or impossible to start your car when the cylinder gets stuck.

If your key doesn't turn on the ignition, it is likely that it needs to be replaced. A locksmith can replace your ignition key replacement cylinder with a comparable one, so that your key will continue to work with your current ignition switch.

To remove the lock, press down on the release pin located at the base of your assembly. Then slide the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder won't slide out, try pressing on the release pin a second time or using a screwdriver, you can press an anti-rotation small button underneath the face of the cylinder. You may also try pushing in on the cylinder with your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to try and push it out.

Once you've removed the old cylinder, install your new one and switch on the vehicle to check whether it's functioning. If it's not, you can reconnect any trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder and perform an anti-theft relearn procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.

The lock for the ignition cylinder may not be as vital to the functioning of your vehicle as it once was, but there are still situations that require you to replace it. It is important to speak with a professional like an automotive locksmith or dealership for cars, to ensure that the task is done correctly and without causing harm to the steering column's plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It is essential to ensure that the new ignition is correctly coded so that your car recognizes it as a genuine key. In the majority of cases, this will require a dealership or a professional to do the relearning.