How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch, which is the electrical portion 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 become worn out. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily resolve the issue but replacement is the only permanent solution.

The steering column can be removed

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that are used to start the car by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This isn't a task for the novice and is best left to professionals.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower column of the steering with a screwdriver. This allows you to access the area around the steering column.

On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Take this bolt off and set it away. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, one will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This requires the use of a specific tool or you can ghetto to do it using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize a bolt removal kit.

If the key can't be placed into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin or call an expert auto locksmith ignition replacement for assistance.

Locksmiths can use a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin down to remove it. They can re-key the ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on the purchase of a new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear 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.

The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems when turning your key or the ignition key replacement cost switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it inside the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for so long.

If you've got a new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's properly fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

Once the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which indicates the ignition switch is fully installed in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll have to follow the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover on your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able 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

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advancements in remote start and push-tostart systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If your car ignition barrel replacement's ignition switch 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 relatively simple to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and fix the issue.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and supplies power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are actually two separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects to your car's computer system to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, the key of your Car Ignition Repair won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key can also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as it is possible.

It's not difficult to change your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. You can do the job quickly and efficiently by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair ignition lock cylinder for you at a time and location that is convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It is placed inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft codes to allow 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 remove and insert the key.

The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. In some cases you may even see a warning light on your dashboard, which signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder age, it can become damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which will prevent your car's ignition from working. The ignition might still work in certain situations if you move it around. However this 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 the key is bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage then the switch and module will likely need to be replaced.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it can cost anywhere between $200 to $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you may need to remove other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle, the replacement procedure can be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.