How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car key won't turn it's time to change 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 is able to slide into.
Over time they "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily
fix car ignition the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.
Removal of the Steering Column
The majority of modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This modern system functions better and is much simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be required to replace it in order to start the car. This isn't a task for the beginner and should be left to professionals.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the screws that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper steering column. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.
There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Unscrew these and set them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This will require the use of a specially designed tool, or you could do it with a piece of metal like a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be equipped with the shear bolt removal kit.
If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to depress the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can contact an expert locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can use a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to turn on or off your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could also be bent or damaged. In this case you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car started.
A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or cause the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it inside the lock. You could try using some WD-40 or graphite to tweak the cylinder but this only works for a short period of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have a replacement key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair ignition lock cylinder (
redirect to Fhoy) manual or an automotive expert.
Once the cylinder is installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you'll have to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder to your key.
Some experts suggest that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it's best to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover on your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and that it begins to work properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders have been less significant in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older vehicles still have them. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder could be the reason. It's relatively simple to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and
fix ignition switch the issue.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the
ignition lock repair near me cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a small amount of 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 wear down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
does a new ignition switch require a new key worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key could also begin to stick and become difficult to insert or remove from the ignition cylinder. These are indications that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as possible.
It's not a big deal to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. A complete repair manual for your car will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the job for you at a time and place.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is affixed to your key and permits it to turn and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. In certain instances you may notice an indicator light on your dashboard that indicates an impending failure.
As the cylinder age, it can become damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which could prevent your car's ignition from functioning. In certain instances, the ignition will still work if you move it around however this could be a sign that something could be wrong.
You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see if it's worn out or if the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage, the module and switch will most likely require replacement.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's recommended to have an expert mechanic do the job. It's not easy because you may have remove other parts like the steering column to get to the
ignition and key replacement cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to deactivate the airbag system, and then reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.
