How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key won't turn or turn, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. Contrary to the switch that 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 can slide into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. The use of WD-40 or graphite may temporarily solve the issue, but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They use a key to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much more efficiently and is less complicated than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be required to replace it to get the car started. This is a task that should be left to experts.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower columns of the steering using a screwdriver. This allows you to access the area around the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It holds the wiper/signal unit in place. Take this bolt off and set it away. Based on the year of your car, you may find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can employ a special tool do this or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. A locksmith will also be capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either 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 can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off the lock cylinder with an electric torch, and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match your existing keys and will help you save the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that houses and secures the key of your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It may also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder will have to be replaced in order for your car to begin.

The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues when turning your key or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it in the lock. You may be able use graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this is only effective for a short period of period of time.

If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps outlined above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully set within the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition lock repair cylinder, as it is often required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column to access the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why you should let a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They will also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it will start correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still make use of these cylinders. If you're having difficulty starting your car or if the ignition switch is not working, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and repair the issue.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is an electronic component that connects with the computer in your car to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but in time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn 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 that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key may become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as you can.

It's not a big deal to change the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the proper procedure for your car's specific make and model. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient to you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and permits it to turn and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to allow the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock will wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The most obvious signs that a car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. In some instances you may even see an alert light on your dashboard that indicates an impending failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. In certain instances, the ignition will still work if you jostle it around, but this is a warning indication that something is wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder as it can cost anywhere between $200 to $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you may require removing other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It is usually done by an authorized dealer. However, you could do it yourself if you have the proper tools and the right instructions.