How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's keys won't turn and it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, in contrast 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 solve the problem however, replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.
Removing the steering column
Most modern cars no longer have a steering column lock cylinder. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating a switch in the dashboard panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be necessary to replace it to get the car started. This is not a job for the novice and should be left to a professional.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the screws that hold the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.
On the side of the column that is closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that holds the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on your car's year you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, one will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. You can employ a special tool accomplish this, or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.
If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress the lock cylinder's pin.
A locksmith can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave it down to take it off. They can change the cylinder's key to match the keys you have and save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical component which houses and secures the key of your car. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It could also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder will require replacement in order for your vehicle to begin.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this method only works for so long.
Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly seated within the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Check the manual of your car or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.
After the cylinder is installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for car ignition replacement to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.
Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder, as it is typically necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job best left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder inside your vehicle. They will also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck, or if you're having difficulty starting your car, a defective ignition lock cylinder could be to blame. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.
The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates a tiny friction that helps keep the key in place but in time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers get worn out, the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
A damaged ignition cylinder typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as is possible.
It's not difficult to replace your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. You can do the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient to you.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is affixed to your key and allows it to turn and start your car. It is placed inside the ignition switch that secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition will wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.
The most obvious indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulties in starting it or places where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. In some cases, you might even notice an alert light on your dashboard that signals the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder ages it is likely to be damaged due to wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which could prevent your car's ignition from working. The ignition could still function in certain situations if you move it around. However it could indicate something is not right.
You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine if it's worn out or the key is bent or damaged. If you own 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 voltage. If you don't find any voltage, the module and switch will most likely need to be replaced.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300, and it's usually best to have an experienced mechanic complete the job. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you might need to remove other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This is typically done at a dealer however, you can learn how to do it yourself with the right tools and instructions.