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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical portion of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite could temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removing the steering column

Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, car ignition switch repair use keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is not a job for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.

Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels that surround 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 column that is closest to the driver, you will find an Allen head bolt that pins the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car you might see three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to take off the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a specially designed tool or perform the task using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. A locksmith can also use an instrument to remove bolts.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to depress the pin on the lock cylinder, or call a locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith can employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin from the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it to take it off the lock. They can re-key the cylinder to match your current keys and save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to allow you to start or stop your car. The cylinder wears down over time. It may also break or become bent. In this instance you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car started.

A worn or broken cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or cause the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You may be able use some WD-40 or graphite to tweak the cylinder but this is only effective for a brief period of period of time.

If you have a brand new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly installed within the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

After the cylinder has been 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 is equipped with an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is usually necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. Because of this, it is a task best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder inside your car. They'll also be able 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 no longer as important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still make use of them. If you have trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and fix the problem.

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

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

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in most cars. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as you can.

Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's an undertaking that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the work for you at a convenient time and place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch that secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which will make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. In some instances the ignition may function if you jerk it into different positions, but this could be a indication that something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can test with a multimeter 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 voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's recommended to have an experienced mechanic complete the job. The process is complicated due to the fact that you could have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system and reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself using the appropriate tools and directions.