How to repair ignition Lock Cylinder an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch, which is the electrical component of the ignition system that sends the power to the engine of your vehicle The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key slides into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily fix the problem however replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This modern system works better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. When this part fails, you might need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is not an activity for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.

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.

On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that holds the assembly of the wiper and signal. Remove the bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can employ a special tool do this or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to press the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can contact a locksmith ignition replacement cost for assistance.

A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They can re-key your ignition cylinder so that 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 cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to start or stop your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It may also become bent or broken. In this case you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car.

A worn or broken cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or cause the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it inside the lock. You may be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for a limited time.

If you have a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert.

After the cylinder has been installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest that you have a professional replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it is often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order for access to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process is likely to involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to a skilled mechanic. They will be able remove the cover on your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder into your car. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still use these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or you're having difficulty starting your car, a defective ignition lock cylinder could be to blame. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, the key of your car won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key can become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is a job that should be done by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're able to follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. 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 location that's convenient to you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits on your key in order to enable it to turn and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to permit key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and can eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. You may even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an impending failure.

As the cylinder age, it may be damaged due to wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can stop your car's ignition from working. The ignition may still work in certain situations by moving it around. However this could be a sign that something is not right.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or 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 do not find any, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement.

It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may need to remove other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.