How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key will not turn, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. In contrast to the switch, which is the electrical component of the ignition system that supplies power to your vehicle's engine, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.

Over time they "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily solve the issue but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, you will require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to professionals.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It holds the wiper/signal unit in place. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small flat head screws that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a specific tool, or you could to do it using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. A locksmith can also use an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to depress the pin on the lock cylinder.

A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match the keys you have and will save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It can also be bent or damaged. In this situation you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it inside the lock. You might be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40. However, this method only works for so long.

If you've got a new key, 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 with keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition and key replacement switch is fully installed in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll have to follow the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a job best left to a skilled mechanic. They will be able remove the cover on your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition cylinder lock repair lock cylinders have been less significant in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older vehicles still have them. If your car's ignition switch is stuck, or if you're having trouble starting the vehicle, a defective ignition key replacement cost lock cylinder may be to blame. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your car ignition barrel replacement near me (click through the next article) and provides power to rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key 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. When the tumblers are worn down the key will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. The key may also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are signs that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is something that should be handled by a trained DIYer only if you're able to follow the correct procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient to you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that is affixed to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch, which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty starting your car or locating locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has worn down and requires replacement. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to signal 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 down, cause damage or even break, which could prevent your car's ignition from functioning. In some cases the ignition may function if you jerk it around but this is a warning indication that something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn-out or if the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any or no voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs $200 to $300, and it's recommended to hire a professional mechanic perform the job. The process is complicated due to the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. The replacement procedure may also require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at the dealership however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the proper tools and instructions.