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. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, as opposed to the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily resolve the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only option.
The steering column can be removed
Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This modern system works more efficiently and is less complicated than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part is damaged, you will require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is not a job for the beginner and should be left to professionals.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels that surround the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This allows you to access the area around your steering column.
On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that holds the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your
car ignition switch replacement, you might have three or four small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. 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. Locksmiths are also equipped with a shear bolt removal kit.
If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin, or call a
auto locksmith ignition replacement for help.
A locksmith will be able to use a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match your existing keys and will save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and secures the key to your car. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to allow you to start or stop your car. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It may also become bent or damaged. In this situation, you will need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car started.
A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or the
auto ignition key replacement switch not moving into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You might be able smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for a certain amount 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 making sure it's properly fitted into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is properly aligned.
After the cylinder is installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will be required to go through the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.
Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement is likely to involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is a job best left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and is working correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though cylinders for ignition locks are no longer as important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older vehicles still have them. If you have trouble starting your
car ignition locked or if the ignition switch is not working it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and
auto ignition key replacement cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to the computer in your car to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.
The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers are worn down the key will not be able slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key can become stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are indications that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.
It's not difficult to replace your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the proper procedure for your car's specific make and model. A full repair manual for your vehicle will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and place that's convenient to you.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and allows it to turn and start your
car key ignition problems. It's affixed to the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to permit the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and may eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.
The most obvious signs 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 a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even notice an alert light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an impending failure.
As the cylinder gets older, it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down and break and prevent the ignition of your car from working. In some instances the ignition may work if you jostle it around but this could be a indicator that something is wrong.
You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn out, or if the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will likely need to be replaced.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's generally recommended to have an experienced mechanic complete the task. The process is complicated by the fact that you could have to take other parts to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Depending on the model of your vehicle 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 a dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.
