How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical part of the ignition system, which sends energy to the engine of your car the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily solve the problem but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.
The steering column can be removed
Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they use keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This newer system is much easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When 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 experts.
Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.
There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in place. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Based on the year of your car, you might have three or four small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a specific tool, or you could to do it using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. A locksmith can also use the bolt removal kit.
If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either contact an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to press 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 cut the pin, then shave the pin down to take it off. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match your existing keys and save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It could also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced to allow your vehicle to start.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems with turning your key, or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, use it inside the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this method is only effective for so long.
Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure that it is seated within the steering column tube flange, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for 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 then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for g28carkeys.co.uk to confirm that the ignition switch has been completely seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.
Some experts recommend that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order for access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover for the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and begins to work properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders have been less significant in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems older vehicles still have them. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck, or if you're having difficulty starting your car it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits 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 a tiny 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 of your car won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.
The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. The key may also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can.
Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it is something that should be completed by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're able to follow the right procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your car can help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient for you.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical component that fits on your key to allow it to turn and start your car. It is inserted into the ignition switch that locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.
The main signs that a car's lock cylinder is about go bad include difficulty starting your vehicle or finding places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder gets older it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which will stop your car's ignition from functioning. In certain instances, the ignition will still work if you move it around but this could be a indication that something is wrong.
You can examine the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you do not find any voltage, then the switch and module likely need replacing.
It's best to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it could cost between $200 and $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you might require removing other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle, the replacement procedure can be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.