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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch, which is the electrical part of the ignition system that supplies the power to the engine of your vehicle, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key slides into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Using WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might need to replace it to be able to start the vehicle. This is not a job for the beginner and should be left to professionals.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels that surround the upper and lower steering column. This allows you to access the area around the steering column.

On the side of the column closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that pins the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Based on the year of your car ignition key replacement you might see three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a specially designed tool or you can ghetto do it with an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to press the pin on the lock cylinder.

A locksmith will be able to use a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match the keys you have and will save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to start or stop your car. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It may also become bent or broken. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder to start your car.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, use it inside the lock. You may be able use some WD-40 or graphite to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a brief period of period of time.

If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition lock repair services cylinder, and follow the instructions above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is seated within the flange of the steering column tube and is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you're not sure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder has been installed then turn the auto ignition key replacement key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which indicates the ignition switch is fully seated inside the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it is often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to get to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They will be able remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older vehicles still have these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck, or you're having trouble starting the vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be the cause. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that slides into your car's ignition switch and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electrical device that connects to your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but in time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key may also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. 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 to you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and allows it to turn and start your car. It's affixed to the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to permit the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The main 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 try to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In certain instances you may even see a warning light on your dashboard that signals an impending failure.

As the cylinder ages it can be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers to break down and break and stop your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition might still work in some instances when you move it around. However it could indicate something is not right.

You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn-out or the key is bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will most likely require replacement.

It's best to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, as it can cost between $200 and $300. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need to remove other components like the steering column, in order to access the ignition key Won't turn cylinder. Depending on the model of your vehicle, the replacement procedure can also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. It is usually done by an authorized dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.