The Benefits Of Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder At Least Once In Your Lifetime
How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's keys will not turn or turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch, which is the electrical part of the ignition system, which sends power to your vehicle's engine The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key slides into.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Using WD-40 or graphite could temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only permanent solution.
Removal of the Steering Column
Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating the switch on the dash panel. This modern system works more efficiently and is less complicated than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are some older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to professionals.
With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners holding the trim panels that surround the lower and upper steering column. This will allow access to the area surrounding the steering column.
On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll find an Allen head bolt that holds the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Based on car ignition cylinder replacement of your car you might see three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, one will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. You can use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.
If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to depress the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can contact a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can use a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match the keys you have and will help you save the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It could also be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder to get your car running.
Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for a limited time.
Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's properly placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.
Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order for access to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a job best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to take off the steering wheel cover and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder inside your car. They'll also verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it is working correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though cylinders for ignition locks have become less important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still make use of these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're having difficulty starting your car it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder could be the reason. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the issue.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.
The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in place. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. If the tumblers get worn out and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key could become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.
It's easy 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 make and model. You can do the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the job for you at a time and location.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical device that fits on your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It's located inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition will 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 main indications that a car's lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty starting your car or locating locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These are usually a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder gets older, it may be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down and break or damage, preventing the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition could still function in some instances if you move it around. However it could be a sign that something is wrong.
You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine if it's worn out or if the key is bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is voltage. If you don't find any voltage then the switch and module will most likely require replacement.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's generally recommended to have an expert mechanic do the task. The process is complicated by the fact that you could require removing other components to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Depending on your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.