How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily solve the problem however, replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use steering column locks. They make use of keys to start the car by pressing and turning a switch in the dash panel. This modern system functions better and is much simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might require replacing it to be able to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.

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

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. It holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Take this bolt off and set it away. Based on the year of your car you might find three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

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

If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can either call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to press the pin of the lock cylinder.

A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin from the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it to remove it from the assembly. They can re-key the ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and secures the key to your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to permit or block the start of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It may also break or get bent. In this situation you'll need replace the cylinder to get your car running.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder can be seen in problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, use it inside the lock. You might be able finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for so long.

If you have a brand new key to replace the van ignition repair cylinder and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is placed within the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. Consult your car's manual or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you'll be required to go through the anti theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it is often necessary to disable the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement is likely to involve taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why you should leave the job to an experienced mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder into your car. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it will start correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and supplies power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are actually two separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a small amount of friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in the majority of cars. However, the key can also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's something that should be handled by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're able to follow the proper procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. You can do the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair ignition lock cylinder (click the next page) guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and place that's convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that is fitted to your key and permits it to turn and start your car. It is inserted into the ignition switch that secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition will wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is about to be damaged is having trouble getting your car ignition barrel replacement started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some instances you may notice an alert light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older it can be damaged due to wear and wear and. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which could prevent your car ignition switch repair's ignition from working. The ignition might still work in some cases when you move it around. However, this could indicate that something is not right.

You can test the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. You can test with a multimeter whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage, the module and switch will most likely need to be replaced.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 and $300. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need remove other components such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to disable the airbag system, and then reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the proper tools and instructions.