How to repair ignition lock cylinder an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car’s keys isn’t turning or turn, it’s time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. Unlike the switch that is the electrical portion of the ignition system, which sends the power to the engine of your vehicle, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.
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.
Removal of the Steering Column
Modern cars don’t have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This modern system works more efficiently and is less complicated than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part fails, you may require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a task that should be left to professionals.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels that cover the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.
There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in place. Take this bolt off and set it away. Based on the year of your car, it could have three or four small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you’ll have to take off the wiper/signal unit. This will require the use of a specific tool or perform the task using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.
If you’re unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. You can either contact an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress the pin on the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can employ a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder, or they can use a torch to cut the pin, then shave it down 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 the purchase of a new ignition.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical device that houses and secures the key in your car. The cylinder “reads” the anti-theft codes and matches your key to turn on or off your car. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It can also be bent or broken. In this situation you’ll need replace the cylinder to get your car started.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not advancing into 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 might be able finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40. However, this method is only effective for a certain amount of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if have a replacement key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it’s securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with 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. You should hear a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully installed within the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.
Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder, since it is often required to shut off the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job best left to an experienced mechanic. They’ll be able to remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They’ll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still make use of these cylinders. If you’re having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is not working it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It’s easy to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.
The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system that connects to the ignition switch in 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 electronic component that connects to your car’s computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.
Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. If the tumblers wear down, your car’s key won’t be able slide into or turn the cylinder.
The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. However, the key may become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as you can.
Replacing your ignition cylinder isn’t difficult, but it’s something that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you’re confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you’re not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and in a location that’s convenient for you.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It’s located inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize the key to turn. The ignition key replacement lock cylinder may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle’s power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.
The most common signs that a car’s lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty starting your vehicle or finding positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. You might even notice an alert light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an impending failure.
As the cylinder ages it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can stop your car’s ignition from functioning. In certain instances the ignition and key replacement may work if you move it in different directions, but this is a warning indicator that something is wrong.
You can check the cylinder’s ignition to determine whether it’s worn out, or the key is bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter if there’s voltage between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don’t see any, then the switch and module likely need replacing.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it’s recommended to have an experienced mechanic complete the task. It’s not easy due to the fact that you might have to remove other components such as the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have, the replacement procedure can also require you to disable the airbag system, and you’ll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if you have the right tools and the right instructions.
