The ignition lock in the cylinder is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the car. It is controlled by a chamber that has springs which can be damaged due to environmental factors like high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch keys, or even the key will not turn, it could indicate that the lock cylinder needs to be replaced. It is recommended to leave the job to an expert automotive locksmith.
Take off the covers of the steering column.
Ignition lock cylinders are the mechanical components that allow keys to be put into the ignition switch and turned to start the car. They can wear out or malfunction in various ways, including keys being put in too hard or in the correct place. They can also degrade and fail due to corrosion or other causes. If your ignition cylinder doesn’t seem to be turning, it’s probably time to replace it. This is a simple job, but you’ll need to remove the steering column cover and airbag cover. The process is risky and could be difficult. It may also require specialized tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder can be found in the middle column, where the steering wheel is positioned. It has two screws at the bottom and an attachment clip on the side that holds it in place. Remove these screws prior to working on the cylinder to stop it from falling out and becoming lost.
After the screws are removed, you can take off the plastic retainers that are located at the bottom of the cover. There’s also a metal retainer that clips into the top of the cover to hold it in place. You may need to pry the cover off of the steering wheel in order to take off the tabs on the lower part of the plastic.
You can cut them off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab is damaged completely it can be replaced with a perforated piece of strapping made of metal that is available at many hardware stores. You’ll need U-clips for attaching the new “tab” at the bottom. They can be bought at any automotive parts store.
After removing the plastic tabs and pulling back the airbag cover, it is now possible to reach the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock by using the Allen wrench 1/16-inch and push the cylinder retaining bolt. You can then remove the cylinder. It is possible to replace it with a specific one for an anti-theft system.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
While many of the latest vehicles have transitioned to push-to-start systems, there’s a good number of cars on the road that require an ignition lock cylinder. This mechanical cylinder is housed inside the electrically powered part called the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and “reads” the anti-theft code within the car key so that it can start.
If your car is showing signs of a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder, it might be time to contact an auto locksmith to get help. A damaged cylinder could cause numerous issues, including absence of power from the engine as well as problems with inserting and taking out the key. Keys that are worn out can damage wafer tumblers, which let the cylinder to turn. This leads to a blockage and stops the vehicle from getting started.
Based on the make and model of your vehicle the ignition cover could be attached using screws or clips. With a screwdriver loosen the screw, then slide the cover off to reveal the ignition lock cylinder. It’s usually a metal cylinder, which is approximately the size of one quarter.
To take the cylinder off, you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Make use of a drill bit that is slightly larger than the key slot and drill through the cylinder until it breaks free. Then, you’ll be able to pull the cylinder out and replace it with a replacement.
You’ll need to check your service manual for the specific steps to remove the ignition cylinder. Once you have the cylinder removed, you are able to install your new ignition switch.
It is first necessary to replace the covers on the steering column. Two screws are needed to secure the lock assembly in place. Once you’ve done this the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn’t be too difficult.
Take off the Ignition Switch
The ignition cylinder lock and switch are two distinct parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they appear similar, you can repair or replace them separately. The switch is the electronic component that supplies power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into. Generally, you will be able to discern that the cylinder for ignition is failing by its inability to turn your key.
When the cylinder fails and the pins inside the tumbler may wear out and make it difficult or impossible to insert or pull out your key. If you notice that your key is worn and won’t turn it, the best choice is to get the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by an experienced locksmith.
The ignition cylinder is exposed by removing the screw or bolt, depending on the make of the vehicle you’re using. It is important to read the service manual of your vehicle prior to attempting this at home, since it can be hazardous and cause damage to the steering column as well as the plastic covers. The switch is also linked with the airbag wiring. Making a mistake with it could cause serious injury.
To take the ignition cylinder out you’ll need an instrument to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers, however, it is more difficult. Once the ignition cylinder is loose, you can replace it with a brand new one at your local auto shop.
You’ll need all the wires that are connected to the electrical connector on the steering column to test the operation. It’s generally easier to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition lock repair key and start the vehicle. If the ignition is working, you can reconnect the battery and try it again. If it doesn’t work it is necessary to reset the immobilizer system by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be handled by professionals.
Reinstall the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends an indication to the engine that it’s time to start up. The key is inserted into the lock cylinder to trigger this process, but the pins and wafers within the cylinder may wear out over time. It could be difficult or impossible to start your car in the event that the cylinder is stuck.
If your car’s key won’t turn, it’s likely the cylinder that controls ignition has damaged and requires replacement. A locksmith can replace your ignition cylinder with a similar one so that your key will continue to work with your current ignition switch.
To remove the lock cylinder that was previously in use simply push it in to the release pin at the bottom of the assembly, and remove the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder will not slide out, you can try pressing the release pin, or use a small anti rotation button that is located underneath the face of the cylinder. You can also push in on the cylinder while turning the key to the ACC position, or attach an accessory to force it out.
Install the new cylinder and test it by turning off the vehicle. If it is, you can connect the trim pieces you removed to get to the cylinder. Then you can perform a relearning procedure to connect the new keys.
The lock on the ignition cylinder might not be as vital to the functionality of your vehicle as it was in the past however there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. Contact a professional like an locksmith or an automotive dealer to ensure the task is done without causing damage to the steering column or other parts of your vehicle. It’s also crucial to ensure that the new ignition cylinder has been correctly encoded so that your vehicle recognizes it as a genuine key. This usually requires a professional or a dealer to perform this process of learning.