How to Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning and it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical which your key slides into, in contrast to the switch that is an electrical component of the ignition system.

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily resolve the issue but replacing the tumblers is the only option.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, it might be required to replace it to start the car. This is a job that should be left to professionals.

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

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll see an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Take this bolt off and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This will require the use of a special tool or perform the task using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be able to use the shear bolt removal kit.

If the key isn't able to be put into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin, or you can call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They will be able to change the cylinder's key to match the keys you have and save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and secures the key in your car. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder wears out. It can be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need to replace the cylinder to get your car started.

The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, try using it inside the lock. You may be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for so long.

If you have a brand new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly installed in the flange on the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is properly aligned.

Once the cylinder is installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, since it is typically necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should let a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the steering wheel cover and install a new ignition locking cylinder inside your car. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older vehicles still have these cylinders. If you're having difficulty starting your car or if the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your vehicle and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder 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. When the tumblers have worn down, the key of your car won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.

It's easy to change the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the proper procedure for your car's specific make and model. A full repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself, you can have 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, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits on your key to allow it to turn and start your vehicle. It is placed inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

Some of the most common indications that your car ignition key replacement's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding places where the key gets caught when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages it is likely to be damaged due to wear and wear and. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which could make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. In some instances the ignition may work if you jostle it around but this is a warning indicator that something is wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn-out or the key is bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any voltage then the switch and module are likely to need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's usually best to let an experienced mechanic complete the job. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need remove other components like the steering column, to reach the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have the procedure for replacing it may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This is typically done at the dealership however, you can also learn how to do it yourself using the right tools and instructions.