How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning and it's time to replace the ignition and key replacement lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical part of the ignition system, which sends the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily fix the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use keys to start the car by pressing and rotating the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system works better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it to get the car started. This is a job that should be left to experts.

Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper column of the steering with the help of a screwdriver. This allows you to access 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. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on your car's year, you may 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.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a specially designed tool or do it with a piece of metal like a cold chisel. A locksmith can also use a bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to release the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith ignition replacement cost can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. They can change the cylinder's key to match your existing keys and will help you save the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical device that is used to house and lock the key in your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to turn on or off your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It could also break or get bent. In this instance, you will need to replace the cylinder to get your car running.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues when turning your key or with the Ignition key Won't turn switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, put it inside the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this method is only effective for a limited time.

If you've got a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly placed within the steering column tube flange and is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder is installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will be required to go through the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts suggest replacing the ignition cylinder, since it is often required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. This is a job best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and that it is working properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still make use of these cylinders. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system which connects to the ignition switch in your car and provides power to rest of the engine. Many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. The switch is the electronic component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn out 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 possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's something that should be done by a trained DIYer only when you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the job for you at a time and place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It's affixed to the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code 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 insert and remove keys.

The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is about be damaged is having trouble starting your vehicle or finding 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 cases, you might even notice an alert light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older it can be damaged due to wear and tear. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which will make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. In some cases, the ignition will still work if you jostle it around but this is a dangerous sign that something could be wrong.

You can examine the cylinder of your ignition and determine 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 connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't see any voltage, the switch and module likely need replacing.

It is recommended to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder as it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you might need to remove other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. The process of replacing it could require you to disable the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.