How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. 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 over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily solve the problem but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Removing the steering column

Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be required to replace it to get the car started. This is not a job for the novice and should be left to professionals.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners holding the trim panels that surround the upper and lower steering column. 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. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Take this bolt off and set it aside. Depending on your car's year you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. You can use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also able to use the shear bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin or call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave it down to remove it. They can re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on the purchase of a new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could also be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need to replace the cylinder to get your car ignition lock started.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra key, use it inside the lock. You could try using some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, but this is only effective for a short period of time.

If you have a brand new key to replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. 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. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert.

After the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully seated inside the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft system, you will have to perform the anti theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is usually necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. This is why it's best to let a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the steering column cover and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and that it begins to work properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in remote start and push-tostart systems, they're common on older cars. If your lost ignition key switch or key is stuck or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle, a defective ignition key replacement cost lock cylinder may be to blame. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix ignition switch the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical 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 as well as the ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, allowing your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates a tiny friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers wear down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key can be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as is possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's a job that should be handled by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A full repair ignition lock cylinder (Click To See More) manual for your vehicle can help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and place that's convenient to you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical device that fits on your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It is inserted into the ignition switch which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to allow the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.

The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting your car or locating locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to signal the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or simply wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which can prevent your car's ignition from working. The ignition could still function in certain situations by moving it around. However this could be a sign that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see whether it's worn out, or if the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check if there's voltage between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any voltage then the switch and module are likely to need to be replaced.

It is best to engage a professional 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 components like the steering column, in order to get to the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if have the right tools and the right instructions.