How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

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

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily fix the issue but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Removal of the Steering Column

The majority of modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This modern system functions more efficiently and is less complicated than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be required to replace it in order to start the car. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the trim panels that surround 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 that is closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Remove the bolt and set it away. Depending on the year of your vehicle, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a special tool or do it with the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith will be able to use a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder with a torch and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They can re-key the ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to permit or block the start of your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It can be bent or broken. If this happens, the cylinder will need to be replaced to allow your car to start.

A worn or broken cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or causing the ignition switch not moving 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 might be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, however this technique only works for so long.

Replace the ignition cylinder lock repair cylinder if you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

Once the cylinder is installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has 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 suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is often required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover on the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure 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 are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advancements in remote start and push-tostart systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having difficulty starting your car or if the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and fix the issue.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects to the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a little friction that keeps the key in place but over time, these small movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers wear down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock repair near me lock cylinder should 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 will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. A full repair ignition lock cylinder (click over here now) manual for your car will help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and place that is convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is placed inside the ignition switch, which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition may wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The main indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These are usually a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder age, it may be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down and break and stop the ignition of your car ignition barrel replacement near me from unlocking. The ignition could still function in some instances when you move it around. However this could indicate that something is not right.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to see if it's worn out or the key ignition replacement is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you are unable to detect any voltage then the switch and module are likely to require replacement.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs $200 to $300, and it's recommended to have an experienced mechanic complete the job. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Depending on your vehicle, the replacement procedure can also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by an authorized dealer. However, you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and the right instructions.