10 Life Lessons That We Can Learn From Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder

How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key won't turn, it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. 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 your key can slide into.

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

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They use keys to start the car by pressing and rotating a switch in the dash panel. This modern system is simpler and more effective than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This is not an activity for the beginner and should be left to a professional.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels covering the upper and lower steering column. This will allow you access to the area surrounding the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Based on the year of your car you might see three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or do it with an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to release the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith can use a shear tool to remove 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 to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks the key in your vehicle. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It may also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder will have to be replaced to allow your vehicle to start.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or causing the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning light to illuminate on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You might be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for so long.

If you have a new key to replace the ignition cylinder and follow the instructions above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's properly 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 ensure the cylinder is correctly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully installed inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll need to perform the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, as it is typically required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. ignition lock repair will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it's best to leave the job to an experienced mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and is working properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still make use of them. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck, or if you're having difficulty starting your car it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder could be to blame. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key may also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as possible.

It's not difficult to change the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. A full repair manual for your car can help you get 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 job for you at a time and place.

Testing 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 is inserted into the ignition switch that locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

The most obvious indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting it or finding areas where the key gets caught when you turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some instances you may notice a warning light on your dashboard, which signals the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is prone to being damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down and break, preventing your car's ignition from unlocking. In certain instances the ignition may function if you jerk it in different directions however this could be a indication that something is wrong.

You can check your ignition cylinder and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you can probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's voltage. If you do not find any or no voltage, then the module and switch probably need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300, and it's recommended to let an experienced mechanic complete the job. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need remove other parts like the steering column, in order to get to the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have the replacement process may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll have change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This is typically done at an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself using the appropriate tools and directions.

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Pub: 29 Apr 2024 12:51 UTC
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