How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch, which is the electrical portion of the ignition system that supplies power to your vehicle's engine, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into.
Over time they "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. 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 utilize keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This modern system works better and is much simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be necessary to replace it to get the car started. This is not an activity for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.
There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in place. Remove the bolt and set it away. Based on the year of your car, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. You can use a special tool to do this or ghetto it with an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. A locksmith can also use an instrument to remove bolts.
If the key can't be put into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch and then 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 slit the pin, then shave the pin down to remove it. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match your existing keys and will 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 is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It can also break or get bent. If does a new ignition switch require a new key happens, the cylinder will need to be replaced to allow your car to start.
A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this method only works for a certain amount of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if have a replacement key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is placed in the flange of the steering column tube and is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. Consult your car's manual or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is aligned correctly.
Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you'll be required to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.
Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to get to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process is likely to involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a task best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the steering wheel cover and install a new ignition locking cylinder inside your car. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed using your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less essential in modern vehicles due to advances in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having difficulty getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the problem.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with your car's computer to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.
The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers will wear out. If the tumblers get worn out and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
The first indication of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil in the majority of cars. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as possible.
It's not difficult to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. A complete repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient to you.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical part that fits your key in order to enable it to turn and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.
The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble starting your car or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You might even notice an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an imminent failure.
As the cylinder age it is likely to be damaged through wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down, damage or break and prevent your car's ignition from unlocking. In some instances the ignition may function if you jerk it into different positions, but this is a warning indication that something is wrong.
You can check your ignition cylinder and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's voltage. If you don't find any voltage or a switch, the module are likely to require replacement.
Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's recommended to hire a professional mechanic perform the job. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you might have to remove other components like the steering column, to reach the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is usually handled by an authorized dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.