How to Repair Ignition lock cylinder an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys will not turn and it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch which is an electrical part of the ignition system.

Over time they "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite may temporarily fix the problem however replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this part fails, you might require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to experts.

Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners holding the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering column. This will allow you access to the area surrounding the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Remove this bolt and place it away. Based on the year of your car ignition replacement, you might have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can either make use of a specific tool to do this or ghetto it with an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to press the lock cylinder's pin.

Locksmiths can use a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder or they can use a torch to cut the pin, then shave the pin to remove it. They can change the cylinder's key to match your current keys and will save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It can also break or become bent. If this occurs, the cylinder will need to be replaced to allow your car to begin.

A worn or broken cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or causing the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN, repair Ignition Lock cylinder or a warning lamp to illuminate 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 short period of period of time.

If you've got a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly seated in the flange of 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, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert.

After the cylinder is installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully installed in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will be required to go through the anti-theft relearn process to program the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, since it is usually necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely require taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They will also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders have been less significant in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still make use of them. If you're having trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, allowing your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers wear down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in most cars. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as it is possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's an undertaking that should be handled by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can do the job quickly and correctly by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the job for you at a convenient time and place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that fits your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch that secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to allow the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder will wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

Some of the main indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail are difficulties in starting it or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In certain instances you may notice an alert light on your dashboard, which signals the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which can prevent your car's ignition from working. In some instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it in different directions but this is a warning sign that something could be wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's any voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will most likely need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300, and it's usually best to have an expert mechanic do the task. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need remove other components such as the steering column, to access the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have the replacement process may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at a dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the proper tools and instructions.