How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch, which is the electrical component of the ignition system that supplies the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only permanent solution.

Eliminating 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 an on the dash panel. This modern system works better and is much simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this part fails, it could be necessary to replace it to start the car. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.

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

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that pins the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on your car ignition switch repair's year you might find three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder you will have to take off the wiper/signal unit. You can use a special tool to do this or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. A locksmith can also use the bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to depress the pin of the lock cylinder.

A locksmith can employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it to remove it from the assembly. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match the keys you have and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could be bent or broken. In this case you'll need replace the cylinder to get your car running.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, try using it inside the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for so long.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure that it is properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is usually required to deactivate the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition lock repair covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover on your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder inside your vehicle. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and begins to work properly 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 technology, older cars still make use of these cylinders. If you have trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car ignition replacement near me and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the ignition key.

The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car ignition locked's key 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. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as is possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it's a job that should be done by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. A complete repair ignition lock cylinder - More Support, manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that is fitted to your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and can eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

Some of the most common signs that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulties in starting it or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder ages it can be damaged due to wear and wear and. This can cause the pins and tumblers to break down and break and prevent the ignition of your car from working. The ignition could still function in some instances when you move it around. However it could be a sign that something is not right.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to determine whether it's worn out, or if the key is bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you could back-probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is any voltage. If you do not find any or no voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300, and it's generally recommended to hire an expert mechanic do the job. The process is complicated due to the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have, the replacement procedure can also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself with the proper tools and instructions.