How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's keys isn't turning and it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical which your key slides into, as opposed to the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily fix the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only option.
The steering column can be removed
Modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This modern system works better and is much simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this part fails, you might require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is not a job for the beginner and is best left to a professional.
Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper steering columns with a screwdriver. This allows you to access the area around your steering column.
On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll see an Allen head bolt that holds the wiper/signal assembly in place. Remove this bolt and place it away. Depending on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch. Unscrew these and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you'll need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specific tool or do it with the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.
If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin or call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can 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 take it off the lock. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and locks the key to your vehicle. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It may also become bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced to allow your vehicle to begin.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder are issues with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it inside the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this only works for a limited time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly seated in the flange of the steering column tube and is properly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to confirm the cylinder is correctly aligned.
After the cylinder is installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.
Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely require taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is a job best left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and that it begins to work properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles due to advances in push-to-start and remote start systems, they're common on older cars. If you have trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.
The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a tiny friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers get worn out the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key can become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. ignition lock repair services are signs that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as quickly as you can.
Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's an undertaking that should be handled by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient to you.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical device that is fitted to your key to allow it to turn and start your vehicle. It's affixed to the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
The main indications that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to go bad include difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder ages it can be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. The ignition might still work in certain situations by moving it around. However this could indicate something is wrong.
You can test the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to see if there is voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage or a switch, the module will most likely require replacement.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's usually best to let an experienced mechanic complete the job. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need remove other components such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It's usually done by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if you have the proper tools and instructions.