How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, and not the switch which is an electrical component of the ignition system.

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite may temporarily fix the problem but replacement is the only permanent solution.

Removal of the Steering Column

The majority of modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating a switch in the dashboard panel. This modern system works better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to start the car. This is not a job for the beginner and is best left to a professional.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.

On the side of the column that is closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that pins the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might find three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This will require the use of a specific tool, or you could to do it using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. You can either call locksmiths 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 employ a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can use a torch to cut the pin, then shave the pin down to take it off. They can re-key the cylinder to match your current keys and will help you save the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the ignition cylinder replacement near me Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and secures the key of your vehicle. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder wears out. It could be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need to replace the cylinder to get your car running.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You could try using graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this is only effective for a short period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have a replacement key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is properly seated into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you're not sure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated into the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, as it is typically necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely involve removal and replacement of the ignition and steering wheel covers. Because of this, it is a job best left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover on the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They will also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it will start correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems older vehicles still have these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch is stuck, or you're having trouble starting the vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's easy to fix your car Ignition system repair's issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

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

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a little friction that helps keep the key in place, but in time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers wear down, the key will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key can be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the lost ignition key lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as it is possible.

It's not difficult to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. You can do the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and in a location that is convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is fitted to your key ignition replacement and allows it to turn and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch that secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock may wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The most obvious indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulties in starting it or locations where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to signal an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages it is likely to be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which will stop your car's ignition from functioning. The ignition could still function in certain situations by moving it around. However it could indicate something is not right.

You can examine the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is the voltage. If you don't find any or no voltage, then the switch and module are likely to require replacement.

It is best to engage a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it can cost between $200 to $300. It can be complicated because you may have remove other parts, such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if you have the proper tools and instructions.