How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys isn't turning and it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. Contrary to the switch, which is the electrical component of the ignition system that supplies energy to the engine of your car, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Using WD-40 or graphite can temporarily fix the problem however replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This modern system functions more efficiently and is less complicated than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be necessary to replace it to allow the car to start. This is not an activity for the novice and is best left to professionals.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels that cover the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Take this bolt off and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may find 3 or 4 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 need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specific tool or you can ghetto do it with an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be put into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin or call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A auto locksmith ignition replacement can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder with a torch and then shave it to remove it from the assembly. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match your current keys and save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical device that houses and secures the key of your car. The cylinder is fitted to 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 also be bent or broken. If this happens, the cylinder will have to be replaced to allow your car to start.

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

If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure that it is properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car ignition switch repair's Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder [Housestate89.Werite.Net] manual or an expert.

After the cylinder has been installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically required to deactivate the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it's best to leave the job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock 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 begins to work correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles because of advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck or you're having trouble starting the vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be the cause. It's simple to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are actually two separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition lock repair key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers wear down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. However, the key may also begin to stick and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are indications that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as possible.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the proper procedure for your car's specific make and model. You can complete the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder on your own make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient to 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 in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock will wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is about to be damaged is having trouble starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some cases you may even see an alert light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older, it can become damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers to wear down and break or damage, preventing the ignition key replacement of your car from unlocking. In some cases the ignition may work if you move it into different positions but this is a dangerous sign that something could be wrong.

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 don't find any voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, as it could cost between $200 to $300. It's not easy because you may have to remove other components such as the steering column, to get to the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to turn off the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This can be done at a dealer however, you can learn how to do it yourself using the right tools and instructions.