You'll Never Guess This Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder's Benefits

How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch which is an electrical part of the ignition system.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. The use of WD-40 or graphite may temporarily fix the problem but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This isn't a task for the beginner and should be left to an experienced professional.

Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This will give 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. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Based on the year of your car, it could have three or four small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Unscrew them and put them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specially designed tool, or you could do it with an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin or call an expert locksmith ignition replacement cost for assistance.

A locksmith can employ a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder, or they can use a torch to cut the pin and then shave it down to take it off. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and secures your car ignition replacement's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to start or stop your car. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It can be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder will need to be replaced to allow your car to start.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning lamp to illuminate on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, however this method is only effective for a certain amount of time.

If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the instructions above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is placed in the steering column tube flange, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. If you're not sure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair ignition lock cylinder manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully seated inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, as it is often necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement is likely to involve removal and replacement of the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover on the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and begins to work properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles due to advancements in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're widespread on older cars. If you're having difficulty getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're 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 key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, over time, the wafer tumblers can wear out. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car will not be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. The key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be completed by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're able to follow the proper procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your car will help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

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

Some of the main indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting it or finding places where the key gets caught when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. In some cases you may even see an alert light on your dashboard that signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder age, it can become damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down, damage or break and stop your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition could still function in some cases by moving it around. However, this could indicate that something is not right.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine whether it's worn-out or if the key is bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will most likely require replacement.

It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 and $300. It can be complicated due to the fact that you might have to remove other components, such as the steering column, to get to the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may also require disabling the airbag system, and you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by an authorized dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.