How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, and not the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.

Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily fix the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only option.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch in the dash panel. This modern system works better and is much simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. However, there are some older vehicles that use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, you will require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.

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

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Take this bolt off and set it away. Depending on your car's year, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can make use of a specific tool to remove it or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.

If the key isn't able to be placed into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to press the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin from the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it to take it off the lock. They can re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that is used to house and lock the key to your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to turn on or off your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could also be bent or ignition key Repair damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder will require replacement to allow your car to start.

A damaged or worn cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning lamp to illuminate on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it in the lock. You may be able use some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, however, this is only for a short period of period of time.

If you have a new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the instructions above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's properly placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully seated inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it is often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column for access to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely require removal and ignition key Repair replacement of the steering wheel and ignition key repair covers. Because of this, it is a task 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 to your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and that it starts properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older vehicles still have these cylinders. If you're having trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is stuck it could be due to an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix car ignition your car's issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition lock repair cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, allowing your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers wear down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key could be stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as is possible.

It's not difficult to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. You can do 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 it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a convenient time and location.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some instances you may notice an indicator light on your dashboard that signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear out and break and prevent the ignition of your car from working. The ignition may still work in some instances if you move it around. However, this could indicate something is not right.

You can check the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. You can test with a multimeter whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any or no voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you could require removing other components to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The replacement process may 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, but you can learn how to do it yourself by using the right tools and instructions.