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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key will not turn or turn, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. Contrary to the switch that is the electrical component of the ignition system, which sends the power to the engine of your vehicle, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into.

Over time they "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily resolve the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Removal of the steering column

The majority of modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use keys that are used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system functions more efficiently and is less complicated than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older vehicles that utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, you may need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is not a job for the novice and is best left to professionals.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels covering the upper and lower steering column. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.

On the side of the column that is closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that holds the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Take this bolt off and set it away. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

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If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to press the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith can use a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match your existing keys and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical device that houses and locks the key in your car. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to start or stop your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It may also become bent or damaged. In this situation you'll need replace the cylinder to get your car running.

A worn or broken cylinder could cause issues turning the key, or cause the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it inside the lock. You may be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for a limited time.

If you have a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps outlined above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's properly fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-ignition-lock-repair-near-me/ 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 have to perform the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's usually necessary to deactivate the airbag in the steering column for access to the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it's best to let a professional mechanic with experience. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and install a new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle. They will also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to rest the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects with your car's computer system to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in place. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, the key of your car won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in the majority of cars. However, the key can become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are signs that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

It's not a big deal to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. 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 location that's convenient to you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It is placed inside the ignition switch, which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is about 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 must be replaced. In certain instances, you might even notice an indicator light on your dashboard, which signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which will stop your car's ignition from functioning. The ignition could still function in some cases by moving it around. However this could indicate that something is wrong.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see if it's worn out or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's any voltage. If you don't find any voltage, the switch and module likely need replacing.

It is best to engage an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you could need to remove other components to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have the procedure for replacing it may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at a dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself using the proper tools and instructions.