How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. 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, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily resolve the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use keys to start the car by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more effective than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be necessary to replace it to get the car started. This is not a job for the beginner and should be left to professionals.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners holding the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. 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. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This will require the use of a special tool or do it with a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of a bolt removal kit.

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

A locksmith can use a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it to remove it from the assembly. They will be able to change the cylinder's key to match your existing keys and will help you save the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder wears out. It can also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement in order for your car to start.

A damaged or worn-out 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 illuminate on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it inside the lock. You may be able to use graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this only works for a brief period of period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is seated in the flange of the steering column tube and is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. If you're unsure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will be required to go through the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder to 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 in order to access the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a task best left to an experienced mechanic. They will be able remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder into your car. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders have been less significant in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still use them. If you're having trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is not working, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your car key ignition replacement near me's issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers wear down the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil in most cars. However, the key could also begin to stick and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as is possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's a job that should be completed by a trained DIYer only when you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. A full repair ignition lock cylinder manual for your vehicle will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and location that is 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 allow it to turn and start your car. It's affixed to the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

Some of the main indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail are difficulty in starting it, or areas where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These issues are typically a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages, it may be damaged due to wear and wear and. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear out and break and prevent the ignition of your car from unlocking. In some instances the ignition may work if you jostle it in different directions but this is a dangerous indication that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine whether it's worn-out or the key is bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter 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 voltage or a switch, the module will most likely need to be replaced.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 to $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you could need to remove other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself with the right tools and instructions.