How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key isn't turning or turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical part of the ignition system, which sends power to your vehicle's engine the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.
Over time they "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily fix the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.
Removing the steering column
Modern cars do not use steering column locks. They make use of a key to start the car by pressing and rotating the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer method is easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This is not an activity for the novice and is best left to professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.
You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Take this bolt off and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small flat head screws that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a special tool or do it with the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also able to use a shear bolt removal kit.
If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin or you can call a locksmith for help.
A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with a torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks the key in your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder wears out. It can be bent or broken. In this situation, you will need to replace the cylinder to start your car.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning your key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it inside the lock. You may be able use some WD-40 or graphite to tweak the cylinder but this is only effective for a short period of period of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is placed within the steering column tube flange and is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. Consult your car's manual or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is aligned correctly.
Once the cylinder is installed then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.
Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it is often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should let an experienced mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover for the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still use these cylinders. If you have trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is not working it could be due to an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the key.
Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, as G28 Car Keys passes the wafer tumblers will wear out. If the tumblers get worn out, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
A damaged ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as quickly as you can.
Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be completed by a trained DIYer only if you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your car can help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient for you.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits your key and allows it to turn and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch, which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to allow the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.
Some of the most common indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulty in starting it, or areas where the key is caught when you turn it. These are usually an indication that the cylinder must be replaced. In some instances you may notice a warning light on your dashboard, which signals the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which will prevent your car's ignition from working. In some instances, the ignition will still work if you move it in different directions but this is a dangerous indicator that something is wrong.
You can examine the cylinder of your ignition and determine if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. 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 don't see any or no voltage, then the switch and module probably need to be replaced.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's usually best to hire a professional mechanic perform the job. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need remove other components, such as the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to disable the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by the dealership however, you can also learn how to do it yourself using the proper tools and instructions.