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 which is the electrical portion of the ignition system, which sends power to your vehicle's engine the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily solve the problem however, replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.
The steering column can be removed
Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating a switch in the dash panel. This modern system functions better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to professionals.
With a screwdriver, take out the screws that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This allows you to access the area around the steering column.
You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your car, it could have three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a special tool, or you could perform the task using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize an instrument to remove bolts.
If the key isn't able to be placed into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin, or you can contact a locksmith for help.
A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it to take it off the lock. They can re-key the cylinder to match the keys you have and save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical device that houses and locks the key in your car. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to permit or block the start of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder will wear out. It could also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement to allow your car to start.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it in the lock. ignition lock cylinder replacement cost may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for so long.
If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is seated within the steering column tube flange, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. Consult your car's manual or an expert to make sure the cylinder is correctly aligned.
After the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully seated inside the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you'll need to follow the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder into your key.
Some experts recommend that you have a professional replace your ignition cylinder. 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 may require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and that it is working properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-tostart systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is stuck it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and repair the issue.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct components. The switch is an electronic component that connects with your car's computer system to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates a little friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these small movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers have worn down, the key of your car won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.
A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key may also begin to stick and become difficult to insert or remove from the ignition cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as is possible.
Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it is something that should be handled by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a time and place.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and eventually fail, leading to problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.
The most obvious signs that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail are difficulties in starting it or locations where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In some cases you may notice an alert light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure.
As the cylinder age it can be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers to break down and break or damage and prevent your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition may still work in some cases when you move it around. However, this could be a sign that something is wrong.
You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine if it's worn out or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check if there's voltage between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage then the switch and module are likely to need to be replaced.
It's best to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you could have to take other parts to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. The replacement process may require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at a dealer however, you can learn how to do it yourself using the proper tools and instructions.