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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's ignition key will not turn, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, as opposed to the switch that is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily fix the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.
Removal of the Steering Column
Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, they use keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer method is simpler and more effective than the older lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, you may need to replace it to be able to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper column of the steering with a screwdriver. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.
You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might see three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a specific tool or do it with the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.
If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to depress the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can call an expert locksmith for assistance.
Locksmiths can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to cut the pin, then shave the pin to remove it. They can re-key the cylinder to match the keys you have and will help you save the cost of a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical component which houses and secures the key of your vehicle. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It could also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder will have to be replaced to allow your car to begin.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues when turning your key or with 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, you can try using it inside the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40. However, this method only works for a certain amount of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is properly aligned.
After the cylinder is installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will be required to go through the anti-theft relearn process to program the new ignition cylinder with your key.
G28CarKeys recommend hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order to get to the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave this job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able remove the cover for the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They will also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders have been less significant in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still make use of these cylinders. If you have trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects to your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.
The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.
The first indication of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible.
It's not a big deal to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. A full repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the job for you at a convenient time and place.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's located inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.
The main indicators that a lock cylinder is about to be damaged is having trouble getting your car started or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder is worn down and requires replacement. In certain instances you may notice an indicator light on your dashboard that indicates an imminent failure.
As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down, damage or break, preventing the ignition of your car from working. The ignition could still function in certain situations when you move it around. However it could be a sign that something is not right.
You can test your ignition cylinder to determine if it's worn out or the key is bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you could back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's the voltage. If you do not find any, then the switch and module probably need to be replaced.
It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you could require removing other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme 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 proper tools and instructions.
