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 that is the electrical component of the ignition system that supplies energy to the engine of your car The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key slides into.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily resolve the issue but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.
Removing the steering column
Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component fails, you may need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.
With a screwdriver, take out the screws that hold the trim panels that cover the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you access to the area around your steering column.
On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that holds the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Based on the year of your car, you might have three or four small screws with a flat head that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This will require the use of a specially designed tool, or you could to do it using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of 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 call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the pin of the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin off the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can change the cylinder's key to match your current keys and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to start or stop your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It may also break or get bent. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder to start your car.
G28CarKeys of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues when turning your key or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, try using it inside the lock. You could try using graphite or WD-40 to fine-tune the cylinder, however, this is only for a brief period of period of time.
If you've got a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the instructions above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly seated in the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the steering column shroud. If you're not sure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert.
After the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.
Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is typically required to deactivate the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why you should leave this job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the steering column cover and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and that it is working correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though cylinders for ignition locks have become less important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still use them. If you have trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.
The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. The switch is an electrical component that connects to 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, allowing your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the 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. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first indication of trouble in most vehicles. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as it is possible.
Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is a job that should be done by a trained DIYer only if you're able to follow the right procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can complete the task quickly and accurately with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own You can let 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, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical device that fits on your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to allow key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.
The main indicators that a lock cylinder is about to be damaged is having trouble getting your car started or locating locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In certain instances you may notice a warning light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure.
As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which will prevent your car's ignition from working. In some cases, the ignition will still work if you move it in different directions however this is a dangerous sign that something could be wrong.
You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn out, or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any voltage, the module and switch will most likely require replacement.
It is recommended to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder as it can cost between $200 and $300. It's not easy due to the fact that you might have remove other parts, such as the steering column, to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.