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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, as opposed to the switch that is an electrical component of the ignition system.

Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily solve the problem, but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

The steering column can be removed

Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is much simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this part fails, it could be required to replace it in order to start the car. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners that hold the trim panels that cover the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in position. Remove the bolt and set it away. Depending on your car's year, you may find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This requires the use of a specially designed tool, or you could perform the task using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize a bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be put into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin or you can contact an expert locksmith for assistance.

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





Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the mechanical cylinder which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to turn on or off your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It may also become bent or broken. If this happens, the cylinder will need to be replaced to allow your car to start.

A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or causing the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning light to illuminate on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, however this method only works for a limited time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow repair ignition lock cylinder to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

Once the cylinder is installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch has been completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you'll be required to go through the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts recommend that you have a professional replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it is often necessary to disable the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is a job best left to a skilled mechanic. They will be able 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 ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and is working correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still use these cylinders. If you have trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the issue.

The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with the computer in your car to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, over time, the wafer tumblers can wear out. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in the majority of cars. However, the key could be stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as is possible.

It's not a big deal to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a time and place.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's located inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to permit the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is prone to wear and eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The main indicators that a lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an imminent failure.

As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down, damage or break and prevent the ignition of your car from working. The ignition could still function in certain situations when you move it around. However it could indicate something is wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder to see whether it's worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any voltage, the module and switch are likely to need to be replaced.

It is best to engage an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 to $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you might require removing other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. The replacement process may require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by an authorized dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.