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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key won't turn, it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical part of the ignition system, which sends the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers will wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily fix the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.

The steering column can be removed

The majority of modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of a key to start the car by pressing and turning a switch in the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. ignition cylinder replacement near me use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it to allow the car to start. This isn't a task for the beginner and should be left to professionals.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with the help of a screwdriver. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a specially designed tool or perform the task using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also able to use the shear bolt removal kit.

If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to depress the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can contact an expert locksmith for assistance.

Locksmiths can use a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin and then shave it down to remove it. 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 Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It could also break or become bent. If this occurs, the cylinder will have to be replaced in order for your vehicle to start.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for a certain amount of time.

If you have a brand new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly seated in the steering column tube flange and is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Check the manual of your car or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is properly aligned.

Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you will be required to go through the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder with your key.





Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, since it is usually required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why you should let a mechanic with experience. They'll be able remove the steering column cover and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles due to advancements in remote start and push-to-start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're having trouble starting the vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder may be the reason. It's relatively simple to replace the ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, over time, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers wear down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. However, the key could also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.

It's not difficult to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. A full repair manual for your car will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the job for you at a time and location.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's located inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting your car or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. In some instances you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard that indicates the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages, it can become damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which could stop your car's ignition from working. In some instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it around however this could be a indicator that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see whether it's worn-out or the key is bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, you can probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage or a switch, the module are likely to need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs $200 to $300, and it's recommended to hire an expert mechanic do the task. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may need to remove other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. The replacement procedure may also require you to disable the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This can be done at the dealership however, you can learn how to do it yourself using the right tools and instructions.