How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear 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

The majority of modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dashboard panel. This newer method is simpler and more effective than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it could be required to replace it in order to start the car. This is not an activity 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 a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, it could have 3 or 4 small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can either employ a special tool accomplish this, or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize a bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either call an auto locksmith ignition replacement or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to press the pin on the lock cylinder.

A locksmith can use the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can use a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin to take it off. They can re-key the ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

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

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

If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is placed in the steering column tube flange and is correctly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. If you are unsure of the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

After 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 in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order for access to the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement is likely to involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. They will be able remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able verify 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 vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still make use of these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or if you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be the reason. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and Fix Ignition Lock the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the 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 actually two separate parts. The switch is an electrical component that connects with the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a little friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

does a new ignition switch require a new key damaged ignition cylinder usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as is possible.

It's not a big deal to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. You can do the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and location.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical component that fits on your key to allow it to turn and start your vehicle. It's mounted inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The most obvious indicators that your car ignition key replacement's lock cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty in starting it, or locations where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older, it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. The ignition might still work in some cases by moving it around. However this could indicate something is not right.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to see 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 battery terminal of the ignition coil to see if there is any voltage. If you do not find any voltage then the switch and module are likely to require replacement.

It is recommended to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need remove other components like the steering column, to access the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.