How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key isn't turning and it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical which your key slides into, and not the switch that is an electrical part of the ignition system.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite could temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removing the steering column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch in the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more effective than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are some older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it could be required to replace it to get the car started. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.

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

On the side of the column closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that holds the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending 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 in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This requires the use of a specific tool or perform the task using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can either call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to release the pin of the lock cylinder.

A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it down 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 a new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical component which is used to house and lock the key to your car. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It can also be bent or damaged. In this case, you will need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, try using it inside the lock. You might be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40. However, this method is only effective for a limited time.

If you've got a new key to replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is installed within the flange on the steering column tube, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert.

After the cylinder is installed and the ignition key replacement switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which indicates the ignition switch is fully installed within the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll need to perform the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely involve removal and replacement of the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They will also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advances in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and fix the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical component that connects to the computer in your car to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but over time, these small movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. If the tumblers wear down, your car ignition switch replacement's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key ignition replacement may also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as it is possible.

It's not difficult to replace your 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 task quickly and efficiently with a complete repair ignition lock cylinder manual for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the job for you at a time and location.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is placed inside the ignition switch which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

The most obvious indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty in starting it, or locations where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is worn down and requires replacement. In some cases you may notice an alert light on your dashboard, which signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear out, damage or break and prevent the ignition of your car from working. In some cases, the lost ignition key will still work if you jostle it in different directions but this is a warning indicator that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine whether it's worn out, or the key is bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to see if there is any voltage. If you do not find any voltage or a switch, the module are likely to require replacement.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's recommended to let an expert mechanic do the job. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you might have remove other parts such as the steering column, in order to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on the model of your vehicle the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This is typically done at a dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself using the appropriate tools and directions.