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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch, which is the electrical part of the ignition system that supplies the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Using WD-40 or graphite can temporarily solve the issue, but replacement is the only solution that lasts.
Removal of the Steering Column
Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. When this part is damaged, you will require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the screws that hold the trim panels covering the upper and lower steering column. This will allow you access to the area surrounding the steering column.
On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll see an Allen head bolt that pins the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Take this bolt off 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 on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can either make use of a specific tool to remove it or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also able to use a shear bolt removal kit.
If the key cannot be put into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin or call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can employ a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder, or they can use a torch to cut the pin, then shave the pin to remove it. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match your existing keys and will save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to allow you to start or stop your car. Over time the cylinder wears out. It can be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced 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 into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it in the lock. You might be able smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for a certain amount of time.
If you have a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is installed in the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Check the manual of your car or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is properly aligned.
After the cylinder is installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you'll have to perform the anti theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.
Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder, since it is usually required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should let an experienced mechanic. They will be able remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder inside your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it begins to work properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though cylinders for ignition locks are no longer as important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older vehicles still have them. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck, or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's simple to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects to the computer in your car to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.
The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers wear down, the key will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the ignition cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as is possible.
It's not difficult to change the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. A complete repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and location that is convenient for you.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock may wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.
The most obvious indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail are difficulty in starting it, or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn down and requires replacement. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder ages, it may be damaged due to wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. The ignition could still function in some cases if you move it around. However this could indicate that something is wrong.
You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine if 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 key stuck in ignition do not find any, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement.
It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, as it can cost between $200 to $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. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require disabling the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if you have the proper tools and the right instructions.
