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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical portion of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car ignition switch repair, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily solve the problem, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are some older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This is a task that should be left to experts.

Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners holding the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you access to the area surrounding the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in place. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on the year of your car, it could have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. You can make use of a specific tool to do this or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using 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 then moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin or you can contact a locksmith for assistance.

Locksmiths can use the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to slit the pin and then shave the pin to take it off. 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 Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to start or stop your car. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It can also be bent or broken. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement to allow your car to begin.

The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra key, use it inside the lock. You may be able use graphite or WD-40 to fine-tune the cylinder, but this is only effective for a limited period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly placed within the steering column tube flange and is aligned correctly with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

Once the cylinder is installed then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully installed inside the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you'll be required to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, since it is typically required to shut off the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a job best left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to remove the steering column cover and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advancements in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If your ignition switch or key seems to be stuck, or if you're having trouble starting the vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be the cause. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to the computer in your car and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, the key of your car will not be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first indication of trouble in most vehicles. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as is possible.

It's not difficult to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the work for you at a convenient time and location.

Test 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 placed inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to allow the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about be damaged is having trouble getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. In some cases you may notice an indicator light on your dashboard, which signals the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or simply wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which could stop your car's ignition from functioning. The ignition may still work in some instances by moving it around. However, this could indicate that something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn out, or the key is bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage then the switch and module will most likely need to be replaced.

It is best to engage an expert mechanic to Repair Ignition lock cylinder the ignition cylinder as it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need remove other components, such as the steering column, to access the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have the replacement process may also require disabling the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if you have the proper tools and instructions.