How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key won't turn, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch that is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. Using WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue however replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.
Eliminating the Steering Column
Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This newer method is simpler and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be required to replace it in order to get the car started. This is not an activity for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.
Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with a screwdriver. This will allow you access to 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. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Take this bolt off and set it aside. Depending on your car's year, you may find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, one will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a specific tool or you can ghetto perform the task using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.
If the key can't be placed into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the pin on the lock cylinder, or call a locksmith for help.
A locksmith can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder or they can use a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin to take it off. They can re-key the cylinder to match your existing keys and will save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that is used to house and lock the key in your car. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. Over time the cylinder will wear out. It could also be bent or damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder will have to be replaced to allow your car to begin.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems with turning your key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, use it in the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, but this is only effective for a brief period of period of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder when you have a replacement key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an expert.
After the cylinder is installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully installed in the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder into your key.
Some experts recommend that you have a professional replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it's usually necessary to deactivate the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. This is why it's best to leave this job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still make use of them. 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 easy to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to the computer in your car and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.
The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, permitting your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. If the tumblers get worn out the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key may become stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as possible.
straight from the source 's not difficult to change the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. You can complete the task quickly and accurately by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the work for you at a convenient time and place.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It's affixed to the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to permit the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.
The most obvious signs that a car's lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding positions where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to signal an imminent failure.
As the cylinder ages, it can become damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers to wear out, damage or break, preventing the ignition of your car from working. In certain instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it into different positions, but this could be a indication that something is wrong.
You can examine the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage, the module and switch will most likely need to be replaced.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs between $200 and $300 and it's generally recommended to hire an expert mechanic do the job. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need remove other parts, such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to disable the airbag system, and then reprogram your key 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 appropriate tools and directions.