How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch, which is the electrical component of the ignition system, which sends power to your vehicle's engine the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into.

Over time they "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite could temporarily fix the problem however replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use a key to start the car ignition locked by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This modern system is simpler and more effective than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is not an activity for the novice and should be left to professionals.

With a screwdriver, take out 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.

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in place. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on your car's year, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. You can use a special tool to remove it or ghetto it using the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key isn't able to be put into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin, or call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to cut the pin and then shave it down to remove it. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on the purchase of a new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical device that houses and locks the key in your car. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It may be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement in order for your car to start.

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 with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra key, put it inside the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, however this method is only effective for so long.

Replace the ignition cylinder when 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 placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to ensure the cylinder is correctly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearning 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 in the steering column to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement is likely to involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a task best left to an experienced mechanic. They will be able remove the cover on your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and is working correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in remote start and push-tostart systems, they're widespread on older cars. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and repair the issue.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor 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 friction, which keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers are worn down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. However, the key may become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's a job that should be handled by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're able to follow the proper procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. You can do the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair ignition lock cylinder guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the job for you at a time and place.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is fitted to your key and permits it to turn and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch that secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is worn down and requires replacement. You may even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an imminent failure.

As the cylinder ages it can be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which will prevent your car's ignition from functioning. In some cases the ignition may work if you move it in different directions but this is a warning indicator that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see if it's worn out or if the key has been 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 don't find any voltage, the module and switch are likely to need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's generally recommended to hire a professional mechanic perform the task. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need remove other components like the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at a dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself with the proper tools and instructions.

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