How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. The use of WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue however replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They make use of keys to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system works better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be required to replace it in order to get the car started. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.

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

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll find an Allen head bolt that pins the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Based on the year of your car ignition switch you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a special tool or to do it using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either contact an locksmith ignition replacement cost or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin and then shave the pin to take it off. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match your current keys and will save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks the key to your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. Over time the cylinder will wear out. It can also be bent or damaged. In this instance you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car running.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, put it in the lock. You may be able to use graphite or WD-40 to fine-tune the cylinder, however, this is only for a short period of period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely seated into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car ignition lock's manual or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend that you have a professional replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave this job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover on the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and begins to work properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older vehicles still have them. 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 the reason. It's easy to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and sends power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects to your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and the key creates a small amount of friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these small movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key could also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as it is possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be completed by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're able to follow the right procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. A full repair Ignition lock cylinder manual for your car will help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and location that is convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's affixed to the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to permit the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

Some of the main signs that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulties in starting it or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These are usually an indication that the cylinder must be replaced. In some instances you may even see an alert light on your dashboard, which signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder ages it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. The ignition might still work in certain situations when you move it around. However, this could indicate that something is not right.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. You can test with a multimeter whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you are unable to detect any voltage then the switch and module will most likely need to be replaced.

Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's usually best to have an experienced mechanic complete the job. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need remove other parts like the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to deactivate the airbag system, and then reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is usually handled by an authorized dealer. However, you can do it yourself if you have the proper tools and the right instructions.