How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into, as opposed to the switch which is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Using car ignition replacement near me -40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is the only solution that lasts.
Removing the Steering Column
Modern cars do not have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be necessary to replace it to start the car. This is a job that should be left to professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.
On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll see an Allen head bolt that pins the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Remove the bolt and set it away. Based on the year of your car, you may have three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and place them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. You can either employ a special tool do this or ghetto it with a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.
If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin, or you can call a locksmith for help.
A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with a torch and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They can re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which is used to house and lock the key of your vehicle. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It could be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder to start your car.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it inside the lock. You may be able to use graphite or WD-40 to fine-tune the cylinder, but this is only effective for a short period of period of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an automotive expert.
After the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you'll have to perform the anti theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.
Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, since it is usually required to shut off the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to let a mechanic with experience. They'll be able remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it starts 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 technology, older vehicles still have these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch is stuck, or if 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 the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with your car's computer 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 inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates a little friction that keeps the key in place but in time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers wear down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.
The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are indications that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as possible.
It's not a big deal to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. You can do the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a convenient time and location.
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 car. It's affixed to the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and may eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
The main indications that a car's lock cylinder is about be damaged is having trouble starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. In some instances you may notice a warning light on your dashboard that signals the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder gets older it may be damaged by corrosion or simply wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers to wear out and break or damage and prevent the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition could still function in certain situations when you move it around. However this could be a sign that something is not right.
You can test your ignition cylinder to see whether it's worn out, or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you don't find any, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.
It's best to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it could cost between $200 to $300. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need to remove other components like the steering column, to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on the model of your vehicle the procedure for replacing it 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 typically done at a dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself with the appropriate tools and directions.