How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key will not turn, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, and not the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily fix the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only solution.
Removing the steering column
Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This newer method is simpler and more effective than the older lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be required to replace it to get the car started. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.
repair ignition lock cylinder will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Remove the bolt and set it away. Based on the year of your car, you might have three or four small screws with flat heads that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and place them aside.
To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can either make use of a specific tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.
If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. You can call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to press the pin of the lock cylinder.
A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with an electric torch, and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They can 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.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. Over time, the cylinder can wear out. It can also break or become bent. In this case you'll need to replace the cylinder to start your car.
A damaged or worn cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or cause the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it in the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for a limited time.
If you have a brand new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the instructions above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to ensure the cylinder is correctly aligned.
Once the cylinder is in then turn the key 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 need to perform the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.
Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder, as it is often required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process is likely to involve taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a task best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles due to advancements in remote start and push-tostart systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having difficulty getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.
The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system which connects to the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are actually two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the key.
The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a small amount of friction that helps keep the key in place but over time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key could also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as possible.
It's not a big deal to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. You can complete the task quickly and accurately with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the job for you at a convenient time and location.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to permit the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, leading to problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.
Some of the most common indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulties in starting it or areas where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. In some cases, you might even notice a warning light on your dashboard that indicates the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down and break or damage and prevent the ignition of your car from working. In some instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it into different positions however this is a dangerous indication that something is wrong.
You can check the cylinder's ignition to determine if it's worn out or the key is bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's any voltage. If you do not find any voltage, the module and switch will likely require replacement.
It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it could cost between $200 and $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may require removing other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle, the replacement procedure can be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. It is usually done by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if you have the proper tools and the right instructions.