How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into, in contrast to the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily fix the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.
Removing the Steering Column
Modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system works better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. When this part fails, you may need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This isn't a task for the novice and should be left to an experienced professional.
Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners holding the trim panels that surround the upper and lower steering column. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.
On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll find an Allen head bolt that pins the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car you might find three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, one will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specially designed tool, or you could do it with the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.
If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the pin on the lock cylinder.
Locksmiths can use a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin and then shave the pin down to remove it. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match the keys you have and save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical device that houses and locks the key of your car. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It can also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement to allow your car to begin.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with 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 an extra, put it inside the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, however this method is only effective for a certain amount of time.
If you have a new key to replace the ignition cylinder and follow the instructions above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is properly placed into the steering column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.
Once the cylinder is in and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch has been completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.
Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, as it is often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able remove the steering column cover and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it will start correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you have trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is not working it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to the computer in your car to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Pins on ignition lock cylinders move up and down, which allows your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates a small amount of friction that helps keep the key in place but over time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn 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.
A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first indication of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key can also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. G28 Car Keys are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it's a job that should be done by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you're confident enough to follow the right procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and accurately by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a time and location.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and allows it to turn and start your car. It is inserted into the ignition switch that locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to allow the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock will wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.
Some of the most common signs that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding places where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an impending failure.
As the cylinder gets older, it may be damaged due to wear and wear and. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which will prevent your car's ignition from functioning. In some cases, the ignition will still work if you jostle it around however this is a dangerous sign that something could be wrong.
You can check your ignition cylinder and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's the voltage. If you don't see any, the switch and module likely need replacing.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's generally recommended to let an expert mechanic do the job. It's not an easy task because you may have remove other components like the steering column to reach the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and instructions.