7 Tips About Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder That Nobody Will Share With You

How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, as opposed to the switch, which is an electrical component 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.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they use keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This newer method is easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part fails, you may need to replace it to be able to start the vehicle. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to professionals.

Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper columns of the steering using a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area surrounding the steering column.


You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that keeps the signal unit and wiper in position. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have three or four 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.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specially designed tool, or you could perform the task using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be capable of using a shear 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 call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to press the pin of the lock cylinder.

A locksmith can employ a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder or they can use a torch to cut the pin, then shave the pin down to take it off. They can re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. ignition system repair cost will save you money on an entirely new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that is used to house and lock the key of your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. Over time the cylinder wears out. It can also be bent or damaged. If this happens, the cylinder will have to be replaced to allow your vehicle to start.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not moving into 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 might be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40. However, this method is only effective for so long.

Replace the ignition cylinder when 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 seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure 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 due to the fact that it's usually necessary to deactivate the steering column airbag for access to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave the job to a mechanic with experience. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed using your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still use these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck or you're having trouble starting the vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder could be the reason. It's relatively simple to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and fix the issue.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the ignition key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move up and down, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates a tiny friction that helps keep the key in place but over time, these small movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A damaged ignition cylinder is usually 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 cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as you can.

It's easy to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the proper procedure for your car's specific model and make. A full repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical device that fits on your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It is placed inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft number to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock can wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The most obvious signs that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an imminent failure.

As the cylinder age it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down and break, preventing the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition might still work in some instances when you move it around. However this could indicate that something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder in your ignition and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. You can test with a multimeter whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It is recommended to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you could require removing other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the right tools and instructions.

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Pub: 28 Apr 2024 21:16 UTC
Views: 31