How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical component of the ignition system that supplies energy to the engine of your car The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. The use of WD-40 or graphite can temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only permanent solution.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use steering column locks. They make use of a key to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating a switch in the dash panel. This modern system works better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be required to replace it to get the car ignition key replacement started. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to professionals.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with the help of a screwdriver. This will allow access to the area surrounding the steering column.

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Take this bolt off and set it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, you will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a special tool, or you could do it with a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin, or you can contact a locksmith ignition replacement cost for assistance.

A locksmith ignition replacement cost can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to slit the pin and then shave it down to remove it. 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 the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It may also become bent or damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder will have to be replaced in order for your car to begin.

A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or cause the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it inside the lock. You could try using some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this only works for a limited time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure that it is properly placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair Ignition lock cylinder manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest replacing the ignition cylinder since it is often required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to let an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder inside your car. They will also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed using your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart technology, older vehicles still have them. If you have trouble starting your car ignition barrel replacement or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. The switch is the electronic component that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as is possible.

It's easy to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the proper procedure for your car's specific model and make. You can complete the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile ignition lock repair services mechanics do the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient to you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical part that fits on your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It is inserted into the ignition switch which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.

The most obvious indications that a car's lock cylinder is about go bad include difficulty starting your car or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In some instances you may notice a warning light on your dashboard, which signals the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older, it may be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers to break down and break or damage and stop the ignition of your car from unlocking. In certain instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it in different directions but this is a dangerous indication that something is wrong.

You can examine the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's voltage. If you don't find any voltage then the switch and module are likely to need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300, and it's usually best to hire an expert mechanic do the task. It's not easy because you may have remove other parts, such as the steering column to access the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at a dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself with the right tools and instructions.