How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's keys isn't turning, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical which your key slides into, as opposed to the switch which is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily resolve the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.
Removal of the steering column
Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, mobile ignition lock repair services utilize keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. When this part fails, you might require replacing it to be able to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the screws that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.
On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you will find an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Remove the bolt and set it away. Based on the year of your car, you may find 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, one will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. You can either employ a special tool do this or ghetto it with an object of metal, such as 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 possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to press the pin of the lock cylinder.
A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin off the lock cylinder with an electric torch, and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. 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 is used to house and lock the key of your car. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to allow you to start or stop your car. Over time the cylinder wears out. It can also break or become bent. In this case, you will need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You might be able finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for so long.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have a replacement key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly seated within the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to confirm the cylinder is correctly aligned.
After the cylinder has been installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.
Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder, since it is often necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement is likely to involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover on the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They will also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems, older vehicles still have these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck, or if you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's relatively simple to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and fix the problem.
The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the ignition key.
The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but in time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. If the tumblers get worn out the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key could be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the ignition cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as is possible.
Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be completed by a trained DIYer only when you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your car can help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and place.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It's located inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and may eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
Some of the most common indications that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulties in starting it or places where the key gets caught when you turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an impending failure.
As the cylinder gets older it can be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which can prevent your car's ignition from functioning. The ignition could still function in certain situations when you move it around. However it could indicate something is wrong.
You can test your ignition cylinder to determine if it's worn out or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to see if there is the voltage. If you don't find any or no voltage, then the switch and module probably need to be replaced.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's usually best to hire 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 ignition cylinder, including the steering column. The replacement process may require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.
