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 part of the ignition system.
Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. The use of WD-40 or graphite can temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only permanent solution.
Removing the Steering Column
The majority of modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of a key to start the car by pressing and rotating the switch on the dash panel. This newer system works much more efficiently and is less complicated than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be necessary to replace it to get the car started. 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 steering columns with a screwdriver. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.
There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on your car's year you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a specially designed tool or you can ghetto do it with a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of a bolt removal kit.
If the key isn't able to be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. ignition lock repair can either call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the pin on the lock cylinder.
Locksmiths can use a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin and then shave the pin down to take it off. 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.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that is used to house and lock the key to your car. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It can also be bent or damaged. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement in order for your car to start.
A damaged or worn-out cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning light to illuminate on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it in the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, however this method is only effective for a certain amount of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if have a replacement key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's properly fitted into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert.
Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which indicates the ignition switch is fully seated inside the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.
Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order to get to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the steering wheel cover and install a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in remote start and push-to-start systems, they are still widespread on older cars. If your ignition switch or key seems to be stuck, or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder could be to blame. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and sends power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct components. The switch is an electronic component that connects with your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place, but in time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car won't be able slide into or rotate the cylinder.
A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key can also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications 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 done by a trained DIYer only if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your car will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the job for you at a time and place.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical part that fits on your key to allow it to turn and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
The most obvious indications that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty in starting it, or places where the key gets caught when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which could prevent your car's ignition from working. The ignition might still work in certain situations by moving it around. However this could indicate something is not right.
You can test your ignition cylinder to see if it's worn out or the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any, then the module and switch likely need replacing.
It's best to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. It can be complicated because you may have remove other components, such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the right tools and instructions.