How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite can temporarily fix the problem, but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They make use of a key to start the car by pressing and rotating the switch on the dash panel. This modern system works more efficiently and is less complicated than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This is not an activity for the beginner and should be left to an experienced professional.

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

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll see an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car ignition barrel replacement near me, you might have three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the wiper/signal unit. This will require the use of a special tool or you can ghetto to do it using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be able to use the shear bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to release the pin on the lock cylinder, or call an expert auto locksmith ignition replacement for assistance.

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

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and locks the key of your vehicle. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It can be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may need to be replaced in order for your car to start.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning the 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, use it inside the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40. However, this method only works for a limited time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an additional key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you're not sure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair ignition Lock cylinder manual or an automotive expert.

After the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which indicates that the ignition switch is fully seated inside the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft system, you will need to follow the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, as it is often required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's best to leave the job to a mechanic with experience. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and install a new ignition lock repair near me locking cylinder into your car ignition switch repair. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though ignition lock cylinders have been less significant in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems older vehicles still have them. If you're having difficulty getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your vehicle and supplies power to the rest the engine. Many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are actually two separate parts. The switch is an electronic component that connects to your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move up and down, which allows your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a little 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, your car's key won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. However, the key may become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as quickly as you can.

It's not difficult to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and in a location that is convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key to allow it to turn and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to authorize key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and may 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's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulties in starting it or areas where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In certain instances you may even see a warning light on your dashboard, which signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is prone to being damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear out and break and stop the ignition of your car from unlocking. In some cases, the ignition will still work if you move it around, but this is a dangerous sign that something could be wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn out, or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you can probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's voltage. If you do not find any or no voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition key replacement cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's usually best to have a professional mechanic perform the task. The process is complicated by the fact that you may require removing other components to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The replacement process may require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is usually handled by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the right tools and the right instructions.