5 Laws That Will Help The Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair Industry
Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the car. It works through springs and chambers which can be damaged by environmental conditions like low or high temperatures.
If your ignition switch keys or the switch itself will not turn, it could be an indication that the lock's cylinder has to be replaced. This is a task best left to a professional auto locksmith.
Remove the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock cylinders are the mechanical parts that allow a key to be placed into the ignition switch and turned in order to start the vehicle. They may wear out or fail in a variety of ways, including the key being placed too hard or not in the correct position. They can also break down and fail due to corrosion or any other reason. If your ignition cylinder isn't turning it's time to replace it. This is a simple job, but you'll need to remove the cover of the steering column and the airbag cover. This process can be risky and difficult and the replacement cylinder might require special tools to put in.
The ignition cylinder is situated in the middle of the column to which the steering wheel attaches. It has two screws on the bottom and an attachment clip on the side to hold it to the column. Remove these screws prior to working on the cylinder in order to prevent it from falling out and getting lost.
After the screws are removed, you can remove the plastic retainers that are located at the bottom of the cover. There's a metal retainer that clips to the top of the cover to keep it in the right position. You may have to pry off the cover in order to remove the tabs on the bottom.
They can be removed by taking off one of the retaining screws and then bending the tab outward a bit. If the tab has been broken off completely you can replace it by using a piece of perforated metal strapping that can be found in most hardware shops. You'll need U-clips to attach the new "tab" at the bottom. These can be purchased at any auto parts shop.
Once the plastic tabs are removed and the airbag cover is removed, you are able to access the hole for the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock using the Allen wrench of 1/16-inch and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. Then, you can take the cylinder out. You may need to replace it with a specially designed one for an anti-theft system.
Remove the Ignition Cylinder
While many of the latest vehicles have transitioned to push-to-start systems, there are still many cars on the road that need an ignition lock cylinder. This cylindrical, mechanical part is housed inside the electrically powered component called the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding inside the car key to allow it to start.
If your car is showing signs of a failing ignition lock cylinder, it might be time to contact an auto locksmith for assistance. A damaged cylinder could cause various issues, including a lack of power to the engine as well as problems with inserting and taking out the key. Keys that are damaged by wear can affect the wafer tumblers that allow for the ignition cylinder to rotate and create a blockage that stops your vehicle from beginning.
Based on the make and model the cover of your ignition switch could be secured by either a clip or screw. Using a screwdriver, loosen the screw, then remove the cover, revealing the ignition lock cylinder. It's usually a metal cylinder, which is approximately the size of a quarter.
To remove the cylinder, you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Use a drill bit that's slightly larger than the key slot, and drill straight into the cylindrical until it breaks. You'll then be able to take the cylinder off and replace it with a new.
The exact process for removing the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so you'll need to review your service manual to find out what steps are required. Once the cylinder has been removed, you can put in your new ignition switch.
Before you can do this you'll have to replace the steering column covers. It is also necessary to fix two screws on top of the lock assembly to secure it. Once you've completed this installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.
Remove the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and cylinder are separate parts of the electrical system in your car. While they may seem like they are, they can be replaced or repaired separately from one another. The switch is the electrical portion that sends power to the vehicle, while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into. You can tell if the ignition cylinder has failed by the inability to turn your key.
When the cylinder is damaged and the pins inside the tumbler can get worn out which makes it difficult or impossible to pull out or insert your key. If you notice that your key has become damaged and isn't turning, your best bet is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
Based on the make of your vehicle it could have a screw or bolt that secures the switch and removing it will expose the cylinder that controls the ignition. Consult your vehicle's manual before making the attempt at home. It could be hazardous and cause damage to the steering column or plastic covers. The switch is also bundled with the airbag wiring. Tampering with it can cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition coil, you will have to remove it using the help of a drill. You can also use pliers to disengage it from the rest of the assembly however this is usually more difficult than using a screwdriver. Once the ignition cylinder is loose, you can replace it with a brand new one at your local auto shop.
You'll need all the wires that are connected to the electrical connector on the steering column to verify its proper operation. It is usually simpler to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition key and start the car. The battery can be reconnected after the ignition has been activated. If your vehicle is still unable to turn on, you will require that the immobilizer reset. This can be done by a dealer or an automotive service technician. This can be a complex procedure, and is better left to a certified professional.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends an indication to the engine that it's time to start up. The key is then inserted into a lock-cylinder to start this process. However the pins and waxes inside the cylinder could wear out over time. This can make it difficult to turn your car on, or even impossible if your cylinder gets stuck.
If your car's key won't turn, it's a sign that the cylinder for ignition is worn out and requires replacement. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder with an identical one, meaning that your new key will work with the original ignition switch and will still be capable of triggering the engine's startup signal.
To remove the old lock you need to press the release pin that is located at the bottom of the assembly and move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder won't slide out, you can try pressing the release pin, or use a small anti rotation button underneath the face of cylinder. You could also try pushing down on the cylinder using your key while rotating it to the ACC or accessory position to try and force it out.
Install the new cylinder and test it by turning the car on. If so, you can reconnect the trim pieces you removed to connect to the cylinder. Then you can perform the relearning process to connect the new keys.
The lock on the ignition cylinder might not be as crucial to the functionality of your vehicle as it used to be however there are situations that require you to replace it. It is essential to talk to a professional, such as an automotive locksmith or a dealership for cars, to ensure the task is done correctly and without causing any damage to the steering column's plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It is also essential to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is correctly coded so that your vehicle can recognize it as a genuine key. fix car ignition requires a professional or a dealer to carry out this relearn.