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 which your key slides into, and not the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.

Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily solve the problem but replacing the tumblers is the only option.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. However, there are older cars that still use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, you may need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is not an activity for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the screws that hold the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. This will give you access to the area around the steering column.

On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that holds the wiper/signal assembly in place. Remove this bolt and place it aside. Depending on your car's year you might see three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. You can employ a special tool remove it or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

If the key isn't able to be placed into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to depress the pin on the lock cylinder, or call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave it down to take it off. They can change the cylinder's key to match your current keys and will help you save the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and secures the key of your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to start or stop your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It could also break or get bent. In this situation you'll need replace the cylinder to get your car started.

A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or cause the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it in the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this method is only effective for so long.

If you have a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is seated in the flange on the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the steering column shroud. If you're not sure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair ignition lock cylinder (my webpage) manual or an expert.

After the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Watch for a 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 will have to follow the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition barrel replacement near me cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, since it is often required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement is likely to involve removal and replacement of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should let a professional mechanic with experience. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles due to advances in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or if you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder could be the reason. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key will not be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key can be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as it is possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is a job that should be handled by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only when you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. does a new ignition switch require a new key full repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a time and place.

Test 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 car. It is inserted into the ignition switch that locks the van ignition repair, and reads the anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an imminent failure.

As the cylinder ages it may be 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 working. In some instances the ignition may work if you move it into different positions however this is a dangerous indication that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine if it's worn out or if the key is bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you could back-probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to see if there is any voltage. If you don't see any or no voltage, the switch and module likely need replacing.

Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's recommended to hire an experienced mechanic complete the job. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need to remove other components like the steering column, to get to the ignition cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and instructions.