Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the vehicle. It operates through springs and chambers that could be damaged by environmental elements like low or high temperatures.

If your ignition switch or key won't move, it could indicate that the cylinder for your lock is damaged and requires to be replaced. This task should be left to a professional auto ignition key replacement locksmith.

Remove the covers for the steering column.

Ignition lock cylinders are the mechanical components that allow keys to be placed into the ignition switch and then turned to turn on the car. They can fail or wear out in a variety of ways, including the key being inserted too hard or not in the correct position. They may also fail due to corrosion and other reasons. If your ignition cylinder doesn't seem to be turning and isn't turning, it's time to replace it. This is a simple job, but you'll need to remove the steering column cover and airbag cover. The process can be dangerous and difficult and the new cylinder may require special tools to be installed.

The ignition cylinder can be found in the middle column, where the steering wheel is mounted. The clip and two screws at the bottom secure the cylinder in place. Remove these screws prior to working on the cylinder in order to prevent it from falling out and becoming lost.

After you have the screws removed, you can take the plastic retainers off the lower part of the cover. A metal retainer is inserted into the top cover to hold it in place. You may have to pull the cover off the steering wheel in order to remove the lower plastic tabs.

You can break them off by removing the retaining screw and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab is broken completely you can replace it by using a piece of perforated metal strapping that can be found in most hardware stores. You'll also need some U-clips to attach the new bottom "tab," and these can be sourced from any automotive parts shop.

Once the plastic tabs have been removed and the airbag cover has been pulled back, you can access the cylinder hole in the ignition. You can open the ignition lock with the Allen wrench 1/16-inch and push the cylinder retaining bolt. Then, you'll be able to pull the cylinder out. You may need to replace it with a specific cylinder for an anti-theft system.

Take off the Ignition Cylinder

While many of the latest vehicles have transitioned to push-to-start systems, there are still many cars on the road that need an ignition lock cylinder. This mechanical cylinder is located inside the electrically powered component called the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding inside the car key to allow it to start.

If your vehicle is showing signs of a failing ignition lock cylinder, it might be time to call an auto locksmith for help. A damaged cylinder could cause several problems, including a lack of power to the engine as well as problems when it comes to inserting and removing the key. Keys that are damaged by wear can cause damage to wafer tumblers that let the ignition cylinder turn. This can cause a jam and prevents the vehicle from starting.

Based on the make and model of your car, the ignition cover may be attached by a clip or screw. With a screwdriver loosen the screw, then remove the cover to reveal the cylinder that locks the ignition. It is typically a metal cylinder that is about the size of a quarter.

To remove the cylinder, you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Use a drill bit that's slightly larger than the key slot and drill straight into the cylindrical until it breaks. You can then take the cylinder out and replace it.

You'll need to consult your service manual for the exact steps to remove the ignition cylinder. Once the cylinder has been removed, you can install your new ignition switch.

Before you can do that, you'll need to reinstall the covers for the steering column. Two screws will also be required to hold the lock assembly in place. Once you've done this the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.

Take off the Ignition Switch

The ignition cylinder and the switch are distinct components of the electrical system inside your vehicle. Although they may look similar, you can repair or replace them separately. The switch is the electrical portion that supplies power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into. In general, you can detect that the ignition cylinder is not working properly by its inability to turn the key.

When the cylinder fails the pins in the tumbler may wear out and make it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you find that your key is damaged and isn't turning, your best bet is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by an experienced locksmith.

Based on the model of your car, there may be an anchor bolt or screw that secures the switch and removing it will expose the ignition cylinder. It is important to read the manual for your vehicle before attempting this at home, because it could be risky and damage the steering column as well as the plastic covers. The switch is also connected with the airbag wiring. Tampering with it can cause serious injuries.

To remove the ignition cylinder it is necessary to use drills to loosen it. You may also use pliers to remove it from the assembly however, this is typically more difficult than using a screwdriver. Once the ignition cylinder is loose, you can replace it with a new one from a local auto store.

You'll need all the wires that are connected to the electrical connection on the steering column to verify its operation. It's best to disconnect the battery first, then take the ignition key and then start the engine. The battery can be reconnected after the ignition has been activated. If it still won't start it is necessary to reset the immobilizer system by a dealer or service technician. This can be a complex procedure, and is better left to a professional with certification.

Install the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch in your car transmits an indication to the engine that it's time to start up. The key is inserted into the lock cylinder to initiate this process, however the pins and wafers inside the cylinder may wear out over time. This can make it difficult to turn on your car, or even impossible if the cylinder becomes stuck.

If your key isn't turning on the ignition, it's likely that it's due to needing to be replaced. A locksmith can replace your ignition cylinder with a comparable one, so that your key can still work with your existing ignition switch.

To take off the lock, press down on the release pin that is located at the bottom of your assembly and move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder won't slide out, try pushing in on the release pin once more or using a screwdriver to depress an anti-rotation small button underneath the face of the cylinder. You can also push in on the cylinder while turning the key to the ACC position or use an accessory to push it out.

Once you've removed your old cylinder, put in the new one and turn on the vehicle to make sure whether it's working. If so, you can connect the trim pieces you removed to get to the cylinder. Then, you can go through an re-learning process to connect the new keys.

The lock on the ignition cylinder might not be as vital to the performance of your car as it once was but there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. It is important to speak with an expert, like an automotive locksmith or car dealer, to ensure the task is completed correctly without harm to the steering column plastic covers or other components in your vehicle. It's also crucial to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is correctly coded so that your vehicle recognizes it as an authentic key. This typically requires a professional or a dealer to do this relearning.