How to repair ignition lock Cylinder an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. They use keys to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This newer method is simpler and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the trim panels covering the upper and lower steering column. This allows you to access the area around your steering column.

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that pins the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on your car's year you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can either use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.

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

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

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks the key of your car. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could also break or become bent. In this case you'll need replace the cylinder to get your car started.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, try using it in the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this method is only effective for a limited time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure that it is placed in the steering column tube flange and is correctly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

After the cylinder has been installed then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which indicates that the ignition switch is fully installed within the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will need to follow the anti theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts suggest that you hire a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it is often necessary to disable the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it's best to leave this job to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and is working correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they're common on older cars. If you have trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, which allows your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every 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 are worn down, the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as is possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's a job that should be done by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can do the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the job for you at a convenient time and location.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It's affixed to the auto ignition key replacement switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

The main indications that a car's lock cylinder is about be damaged is having trouble starting your vehicle or finding positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn down and requires replacement. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older it can be damaged due to wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which could stop your car's ignition from working. In some cases the ignition may function if you jerk it into different positions, but this is a warning indication that something is wrong.

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

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's generally recommended to let an experienced mechanic complete the job. It's not an easy task because you may have remove other components such as the steering column to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require disabling the airbag system, and you'll have change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This is typically done at the dealership however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.