How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key will not turn and it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch which is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time they "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only permanent solution.
Removing the Steering Column
Modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning a switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the traditional lock cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to start the car. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.
Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower column of the steering with a screwdriver. This will give you access to the area around the steering column.
On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car you might see three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.
To access the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. You can use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.
If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the pin on the lock cylinder.
A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin from the lock cylinder using a 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 cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that houses and secures the key in your
car ignition key replacement. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder will wear out. It can also be bent or damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced in order for your car to begin.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder are issues with turning the key, or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for a limited time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if have an additional key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure that it is placed in the flange on the steering column tube and is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Consult your
car ignition replacement's manual or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.
Once the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.
Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely require removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's best to let a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and starts properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important 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 may be the cause. It's simple to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.
The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, which allows your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and the key creates a little friction that helps keep the key in place but in time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.
A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key can be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible.
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 vehicle's specific model and make. You can complete the job quickly and accurately by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified
mobile ignition lock repair services mechanics do the repair ignition lock cylinder (
Sample682.webppia.com) for you at a time and in a location that's convenient for you.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is inserted into the ignition switch, which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder may wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.
Some of the main indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail are difficulty in starting it, or places where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These are usually an indication that the cylinder must be replaced. In some cases you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard that signals the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder gets older it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can stop your car's ignition from functioning. In some cases the ignition may function if you jerk it into different positions, but this could be a sign that something could be wrong.
You can check the cylinder's
ignition lock repair near me to see if it's worn out or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's any voltage. If you do not find any voltage, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs $200 to $300, and it's generally recommended to let an experienced mechanic complete the task. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you could have to take other parts to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on the model of your vehicle the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself using the appropriate tools and directions.
