How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical component of the ignition system that supplies power to your vehicle's engine, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.

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

The steering column can be removed

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more effective than the older lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this part fails, you may need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.

Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners holding the trim panels covering the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will give you access to the area around the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in place. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your Car Ignition System Repair, you might have three or four small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, you'll need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. You can use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin, or you can call an expert locksmith for assistance.

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

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which is used to house and lock the key in your car. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It may also become bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement in order for your car to begin.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or with the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You might be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, but this method is only effective for so long.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have a replacement key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is placed within the steering column tube flange, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you're not sure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will be required to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's usually necessary to deactivate the airbag on the steering column in order to get to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a job best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and that it begins to work properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still make use of these cylinders. If you have trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is not working it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the issue.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is an electronic component that connects with your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, allowing your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every 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. When the tumblers have worn down, the key of your car will not be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as possible.

It's not difficult to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the proper procedure for your car's specific model and make. You can complete the task quickly and accurately by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a time and place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and permits it to turn and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

Some of the main signs that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty in starting it, or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These issues are typically a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an imminent failure.

As the cylinder ages it may be damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which can prevent your car's ignition from working. In some instances, the ignition will still work if you jostle it into different positions, but this is a dangerous sign that something could be wrong.

You can check the cylinder's 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 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 probably need to be replaced.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it could cost between $200 to $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you might have to take other parts to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle, the replacement procedure can also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It is usually done by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if have the right tools and the right instructions.