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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key will not turn or turn, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into, and not the switch that is an electrical part of the ignition system.

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

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This modern system functions more efficiently and is less complicated than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, you may need to replace it to be able to start the vehicle. This is not an activity for the beginner and should be left to an experienced professional.

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.

On the side of the column closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on your car's year you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. A locksmith can also use an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key can't be put into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress 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, then shave it down to remove it. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car ignition switch's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to permit or block the start of your vehicle. Over time, the cylinder can wear out. It can also be bent or damaged. In this situation you'll need replace the cylinder in order to get your car ignition replacement started.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems when turning your key or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it inside the lock. You could try using graphite or WD-40 to tweak the cylinder but this is only effective for a short period of period of time.

If you have a new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the instructions above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is properly placed into the steering column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

Once the cylinder is installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder into your car. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using 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're common on older cars. If your ignition switch or key seems to be stuck, or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder could be the cause. It's easy to fix ignition switch the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that is inserted into the ignition and key replacement switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition cylinder lock repair locks move up and down, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates a little friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key could also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are indications that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is something that should be done by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only when you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can complete the task quickly and efficiently by using a complete repair ignition lock cylinder manual for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It is inserted into the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and eventually fail, leading to problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

Some of the main indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulties in starting it or areas where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In some instances, you might even notice a warning light on your dashboard that indicates an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages it can be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers to wear out and break or damage and stop the ignition of your car from unlocking. In some instances the ignition may work if you move it in different directions however this is a warning sign that something could be wrong.

You can test the cylinder in your ignition and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage or a switch, the module will likely need to be replaced.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 to $300. It's not easy due to the fact that you might have to remove other components such as the steering column to access 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 you'll have to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This is typically done at a dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.