How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys isn't turning and it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch which is the electrical component of the ignition system, which sends the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue but replacement is the only permanent solution.

Removal of the steering column

Most modern cars no longer use a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of a key to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be necessary to replace it to get the car started. This is a job that should be left to experts.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners that hold the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering column. This will allow you to access the area around the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that keeps the signal unit and wiper in place. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you might 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 access the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or to do it using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize an instrument to remove bolts.

If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to release the pin on the lock cylinder.

A locksmith can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave the pin down to remove it. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match your current keys and will help you save the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car ignition locked's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to turn on or off your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could also be bent or broken. In this case you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car started.

The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You may be able use graphite or WD-40 to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a limited 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 properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is properly aligned.

Once the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully installed inside the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to program the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it is often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to get to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's best to leave this job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover for the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They will also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advances in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still widespread on older cars. If your car's ignition switch is stuck, or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder could be the reason. It's relatively simple to replace the ignition lock cylinder and Repair ignition lock Cylinder the problem.

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

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move upwards and downwards, allowing your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but in time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers wear down, your car's key will not be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil in most cars. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is something that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your Car Ignition Lock Repair Near Me will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and place that's convenient for you.

Test 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 vehicle. It is inserted into the ignition switch, which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

Some of the most common indicators that your car's lock cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding locations where the key gets caught when you turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can prevent your car's ignition from functioning. The ignition might still work in some cases when you move it around. However, this could be a sign that something is not right.

You can test the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to determine 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, then the switch and module likely need replacing.

It is best to engage an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder as it can cost between $200 to $300. It's not easy due to the fact that you might have to remove other components such as the steering column to access the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by a dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself by using the right tools and instructions.