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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key won't turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into, in contrast to the switch which 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.
Removing the Steering Column
Most modern cars no longer have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to get the car started. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. This will give you access to the area around the steering column.
You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you may have three or four small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, one will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. You can make use of a specific tool to do this or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.
If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin, or call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin off the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. 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.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and secures the key to your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. Over time, the cylinder can wear out. It can also break or get bent. In this situation you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car.
Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, put it in the lock. You may be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, however this method only works for so long.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an additional key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure that it is properly placed into the steering column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the correct alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an automotive expert.
After the cylinder is installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set in the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft system, you will need to follow the anti theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder into your key.
Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement is likely to involve taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover on your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and is working correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though cylinders for ignition locks are no longer as important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older vehicles still have them. If your car's ignition switch is stuck, or you're having trouble starting the vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder may be the reason. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.
Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a tiny friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When car key ignition replacement near me are worn down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are indications that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as possible.
Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is a job that should be handled by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the job for you at a convenient time and place.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that is fitted to your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's mounted inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.
The most obvious indications that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder age it can be damaged due to wear and tear. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which will stop your car's ignition from functioning. In certain instances, the ignition will still work if you jostle it into different positions but this could be a sign that something could be wrong.
You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine if there's voltage between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.
It is recommended to hire a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it could cost between $200 and $300. It's not easy because you may have remove other parts, such as the steering column to access the ignition cylinder. Depending on the model of your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may also require disabling the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the right tools and instructions.
