How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical component of the ignition system that sends power to your vehicle's engine The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.
Over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite could temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.
The steering column can be removed
The majority of modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much more efficiently and is less complicated than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. When this part fails, you might require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This is not an activity for the beginner and should be left to a professional.
Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels covering the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow access to the area surrounding the steering column.
There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Remove this bolt and place it away. Depending on the year of your car, you might have three or four small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, one will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. You can make use of a specific tool to do this or ghetto it using the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.
If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin or you can call a locksmith for help.
A locksmith can employ a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin, then shave the pin to take it off. They can re-key your ignition cylinder so that 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 cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It can also be bent or damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder will need to be replaced in order for your vehicle to begin.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning your key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, use it inside the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this method is only effective for a certain amount of time.
If you have a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.
After the cylinder is installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch is completely seated into 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 suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, since it is typically required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement is likely to involve removal and replacement of the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's recommended to leave the job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover for the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it will start correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still use them. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or you're having trouble starting the vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that connects to the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the ignition key.
The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, allowing your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key won't be able slide into or rotate the cylinder.
A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key may also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. lost ignition key are indicators that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.
It's not a big deal to change your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. A complete repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work 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 device that fits your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It's mounted inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to allow the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock may wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.
The main indicators that a lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. In certain instances, you might even notice a warning light on your dashboard that indicates an imminent failure.
As the cylinder age it is prone to being damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers to break down, damage or break, preventing your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition might still work in some cases by moving it around. However it could indicate something is not right.
You can check the cylinder in your ignition and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, you could back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is the voltage. If you do not find any voltage, then the module and switch likely need replacing.
Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's recommended to let an expert mechanic do the job. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may need to remove other components to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The process of replacing it could require you to disable the airbag system, and then reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is usually handled by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the right tools and instructions.