How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key won't turn or turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical which your key slides into, and not 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 fix the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only solution.
Removing the Steering Column
Most modern cars no longer utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dashboard panel. This newer method is simpler and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a task that should be left to experts.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. does a new ignition switch require a new key will allow you to access the area around your steering column.
On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that holds the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Remove the bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can employ a special tool do this or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of a bolt removal kit.
If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. You can try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin, or call an expert locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin off the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition Cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It may also become bent or broken. In this case, you will need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car running.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a limited time.
If you have a new key to replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly seated in the steering column tube flange and is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. If you're not sure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert.
After the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch has been completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.
Some experts suggest that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it's usually necessary to deactivate the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement is likely to involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why you should leave this job to a professional mechanic with experience. They will be able remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They will also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles due to advances in remote start and push-tostart systems, they're common on older cars. If you're having trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and fix the problem.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and sends power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with your car's computer system to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.
The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, allowing your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, over time, the wafer tumblers can wear out. If the tumblers wear down, your car's key won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder.
A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key can also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as it is possible.
Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's a job that should be done by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're able to follow the right procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can do the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. 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 time and location.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits on your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It is inserted into the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft number to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.
The most obvious indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail are difficulty in starting it, or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some cases you may notice an alert light on your dashboard, which signals an imminent failure.
As the cylinder age, it can become damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down, damage or break and stop the ignition of your car from working. In some cases the ignition may work if you jostle it around but this is a warning indicator that something is wrong.
You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine whether it's worn out, or if the key is bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter if there's voltage between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's generally recommended to let an experienced mechanic complete the job. The process is complicated by the fact that you might have to take other parts to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on the model of your vehicle the replacement process may also require disabling the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.