How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. The use of WD-40 or graphite can temporarily solve the issue but replacement is the only permanent solution.
Eliminating the Steering Column
Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning a switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be required to replace it to start the car. This is a task that should be left to experts.
Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels covering the upper and lower steering column. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.
On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll find an Allen head bolt that pins the wiper/signal assembly in place. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, you will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or to do it using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.
If the key cannot be put into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to release 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 of the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it to take it off the lock. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match your existing keys and will help you save the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and secures the key in your car. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It can also be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder in order to start your car.
A damaged or worn cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it inside the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, however, this is only for a short period of time.
If you have a brand new key to replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is placed in the flange on the steering column tube and is properly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is properly aligned.
After the cylinder is installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set within the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder into your key.
Some experts suggest that you hire a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order to get to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it's best to let an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also be able to ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and begins to work properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though cylinders for ignition locks are no longer as important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still make use of these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck or you're having trouble starting the vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be the cause. It's simple to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system which connects to the ignition switch of your vehicle and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are separate 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 key.
The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, allowing your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates a little friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these small movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down the key will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
The first sign of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. does a new ignition switch require a new key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are indications that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as you can.
Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be completed by a trained DIYer only if you're able to follow the correct procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete 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 part that is fitted to your key to allow it to turn and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.
The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These issues are typically a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. In certain instances you may notice a warning light on your dashboard, which signals an impending failure.
As the cylinder age it may be damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which will make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. The ignition could still function in certain situations if you move it around. However this could indicate something is wrong.
You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's voltage. If you do not find any voltage then the switch and module will most likely require replacement.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's usually best to have an expert mechanic do the task. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need to remove other components such as the steering column to access the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have the procedure for replacing it may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll have change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer however, you can learn how to do it yourself using the right tools and instructions.