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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical which your key slides into, and not the switch that 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 could temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only permanent solution.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch in the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. When this part fails, you may require replacing it to be able to start the vehicle. This is not a job for the beginner and should be left to a professional.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower columns of the steering using a screwdriver. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.





You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in place. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your car, it could have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This will require the use of a specific tool, or you could to do it using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.

If the key can't be inserted into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can contact a locksmith for help.

A locksmith can use the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder or they can use a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin down to take it off. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match the keys you have and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to turn on or off your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It may also break or become bent. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement to allow your vehicle to start.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, you can try using it inside the lock. You may be able use graphite or WD-40 to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a short period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. 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 then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully installed within the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you will be required to go through the anti theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it is often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to let a mechanic with experience. They'll be able remove the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it starts correctly 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 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 may be to blame. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers wear down, the key will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in most cars. However, the key could be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are indications that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

It's easy to replace your 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 with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a convenient time and place.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical device that fits on your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It is inserted into the ignition switch which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The most obvious signs that a car's lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In certain instances you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard that indicates the possibility of a failure.

As car ignition lock may 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 prevent your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition could still function in some instances when you move it around. However it could be a sign that something is not right.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see whether it's worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is voltage. If you don't find any or no voltage, the switch and module are likely to require replacement.

It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. The replacement procedure may also require you to turn off the airbag system, and then reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at the dealership, but you can learn how to do it yourself by using the proper tools and instructions.