How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition cylinder lock repair lock cylinder. Unlike the switch which is the electrical part of the ignition system that sends power to your vehicle's engine The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily solve the problem, but replacing the tumblers is the only option.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They make use of keys to start the car by pressing and turning an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This newer system works much more efficiently and is less complicated than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, you will require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This is not a job for the novice and should be left to a professional.

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

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. You can use a special tool to remove it or Auto ignition key replacement ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also equipped with the shear bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith can use the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave the pin to remove it. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match your existing keys and will help you save the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical device that houses and locks the key to your vehicle. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It may also become bent or damaged. In this instance you'll need to replace the cylinder to get your car running.

The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning your key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You may be able use graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this is only effective for a limited time.

If you've got a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's properly seated into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the correct alignment of the cylinder, check 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. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully 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 cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process is likely to involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's best to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the steering column cover and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it is properly started 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-tostart systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and repair the issue.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that slides into your car's ignition cylinder lock repair switch and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with your car's computer to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates a little friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these small movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers get worn out and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will not be able slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

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

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is something that should be handled by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. You can do the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is affixed to your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is inserted into the ignition switch which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and may eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

The most common indicators that a lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. You might even notice an alert light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages, it may be damaged through wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which could prevent your car's ignition from functioning. In certain instances, the ignition will still work if you move it in different directions but this could be a indication that something is wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn-out or fix ignition Switch if the key is bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's the voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage then the switch and module will likely need to be replaced.

Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's generally recommended to let a professional mechanic perform the task. It's not an easy task because you may have to remove other components like the steering column to get to 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 can be done at an authorized dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself by using the right tools and instructions.