How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys isn't turning and it's time to replace 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 over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily solve the problem, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This modern system functions better and is much simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. When this part is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a task that should be left to experts.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners holding the trim panels that cover the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you to access the area around the steering column.

You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your car, it could have three or four small flat head screws that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, one will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This requires the use of a specially designed tool or perform the task using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be equipped with the shear bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to depress 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 an electric torch, and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match your existing keys and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that houses and locks the key to your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It may also break or get bent. In this situation, you will need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car running.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You might be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for a limited time.

If you have a brand new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is 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 ensure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

Once the cylinder is in and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set in the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft system, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn process to program the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is a task best left to a professional mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They will 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

While ignition cylinder replacement near me lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles due to advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're widespread on older cars. If you're having trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your vehicle's lost ignition key lock cylinder, and then fix the problem.

The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects to the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in place. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will not be able slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in most cars. The key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as it is possible.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. You can complete the task quickly and correctly with a complete repair ignition lock cylinder, click this site, guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile ignition lock repair services mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize key turning. The ignition lock cylinder will wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The main indicators that a lock cylinder is about go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In some cases you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard that indicates an impending failure.

As the cylinder age it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down, damage or break and prevent the ignition of your car from unlocking. In some cases, the ignition will still work if you jostle it into different positions but this is a dangerous indication that something is wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder and see whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any or no voltage, then the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 to $300. It can be complicated because you may have to remove other components like the steering column, in order to get to the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have the replacement process may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. It is usually done by an authorized dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.