How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning and it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical portion of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite may temporarily fix the problem, but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch in the dash panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. However, there are some older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, you may need to replace it to be able to start the vehicle. This is not a job for the novice and is best left to an experienced professional.

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow access to the area surrounding the steering column.

On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Take this bolt off and set it away. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can employ a special tool do this or ghetto it using the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be equipped with the shear bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin, or call a locksmith for help.

A locksmith ignition replacement cost can employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. They can re-key the cylinder to match the keys you have and will help you save the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and secures the key of your vehicle. The cylinder is affixed to the key stuck in Ignition and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It could also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced to allow your car to start.

A damaged or worn cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or causing the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have does a new ignition switch require a new key spare, you can try using it inside the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for a certain amount of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. 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 in 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 within the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process is likely to involve removal and replacement of the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder inside your car. They will also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they're widespread on older cars. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is not working, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that slides into your car's ignition switch and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move upwards and downwards, allowing your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates a tiny friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first indication of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key could be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the ignition cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.

It's not difficult to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. A full repair manual for your car will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and place.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits your key in order to enable it to turn and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition may wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues 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 to fail is difficulty starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. In some cases you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard that indicates an impending failure.

As the cylinder age, it can become damaged due to corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which can stop your car's ignition from functioning. The ignition could still function in some cases when you move it around. However it could indicate that something is wrong.

You can check your ignition cylinder and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is any voltage. If you don't see any voltage, then the module and switch likely need replacing.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 to $300. It's not easy because you may have remove other components such as the steering column, to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require disabling the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.