How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical component of the ignition system that sends the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.
Over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. The use of WD-40 or graphite can temporarily solve the issue, but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.
Removing the Steering Column
Modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They use keys 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 lock-cylinder system of the past. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this part fails, you might need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is not a job for the novice and should be left to professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.
You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on your car's year, you may find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, one will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or to do it using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be equipped with the shear bolt removal kit.
If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin or you can call an expert locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can employ a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to cut the pin, then shave the pin to take it off. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and locks the key of your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to start or stop your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It could also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement in order for your vehicle to begin.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include 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 an extra, put it inside the lock. You may be able use graphite or WD-40 to fine-tune the cylinder, but this is only effective for a limited time.
If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the instructions above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is installed within the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you are unsure of the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.
After the cylinder has been installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully installed in the cylinder. If fix ignition switch has an anti-theft system, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.
Some experts suggest that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it is often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a job best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to take off the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still use these cylinders. If your ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're having difficulty starting your car, a defective ignition lock cylinder could be to blame. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that slides into your car's ignition switch and sends power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the key.
Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will not be able slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
The first sign of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil in the majority of cars. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace the ignition lock cylinder as quickly as you can.
Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it is a job that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident 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.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical device that is fitted to your key to allow it to turn and start your vehicle. It is inserted into 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 susceptible 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.
Some of the main indications that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding areas where the key is caught when you turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an impending failure.
As the cylinder gets older it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which can prevent your car's ignition from working. In some cases the ignition may work if you move it into different positions, but this is a warning indicator that something is wrong.
You can check the cylinder's ignition to see if 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 connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any voltage, the switch and module likely need replacing.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs $200 to $300, and it's generally recommended to hire an expert mechanic do the job. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need to remove other components, such as the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at an authorized dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself using the proper tools and instructions.