How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removal of the steering column

The majority of modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.

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

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. It holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Remove this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, it could have three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can either use a special tool to do this or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize an instrument to remove bolts.

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

A locksmith can use the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can use a torch to cut the pin, then shave it down to remove it. They can re-key the 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 the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to allow you to start or stop your car. The cylinder can wear down over time. It can also be bent or broken. In this instance, you will need to replace the cylinder to start your car.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, try using it inside the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this method is only effective for so long.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly installed within the flange on the steering column tube, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to ensure the cylinder is correctly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully seated inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition lock repair near me cylinder with your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is usually required to deactivate the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able remove the steering column cover and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older vehicles still have these cylinders. If you have trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system which slides into the ignition switch of your vehicle and supplies power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electrical device that connects to the computer in your car to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, the key of your car will not be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the ignition cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as possible.

Replacing the lost ignition key cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is something that should be done by a trained DIYer only if you're able to follow the proper procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair ignition lock cylinder - Read the Full Piece of writing, for you at does a new ignition switch require a new key time and in a location that's convenient to you.

Testing 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 is inserted into the ignition switch that secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The ignition lock cylinder can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The main signs that a car's lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn down and requires replacement. In some instances you may notice an alert light on your dashboard that signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear down and break and prevent your car ignition lock's ignition from unlocking. The ignition may still work in some instances when you move it around. However it could indicate that something is not right.

You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn out, or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is any voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch are likely to require replacement.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it could cost between $200 and $300. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need remove other parts, such as the steering column, to access the ignition cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to disable the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by the dealership, but you can learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.