How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch which is the electrical part of the ignition system that supplies energy to the engine of your car, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removing the steering column

Most modern cars no longer use a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, you may need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be left to professionals.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with a screwdriver. This will allow you to access the area around the steering column.

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that holds the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Take this bolt off and set it away. Based on the year of your car you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, one will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. You can employ a special tool remove it or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize does a new ignition switch require a new key bolt removal kit.

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

A locksmith can use a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with a 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.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key 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 may be bent or broken. In this case you'll need to replace the cylinder to start your car.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning the key, or with the ignition and key replacement switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it inside the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for a limited time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly installed within the steering column tube flange, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Consult your car's manual or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover for the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They will also be able ensure 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

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have become less important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still make use of these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck, or if you're having trouble starting the vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder could be the reason. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that slides 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 are two distinct components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers are worn down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it 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. However, the key could be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's an undertaking that should be handled by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair ignition key replacement lock cylinder - i was reading this - for you at a time and place that's convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical part that fits your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It's affixed to the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to authorize the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

The main indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble starting your vehicle or finding positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. In some instances, you might even notice an alert light on your dashboard that indicates an imminent failure.

As the cylinder age, it may be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers to break down, damage or break and prevent your car's ignition from unlocking. In certain instances, the ignition will still work if you jostle it around, but this is a dangerous indicator that something is wrong.

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

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's generally recommended to hire a professional mechanic perform the task. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need to remove other components, such as the steering column, in order to get to the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have, the replacement procedure can be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at the dealership however, you can learn how to do it yourself with the proper tools and instructions.