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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder If your car's keys isn't turning or turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler which your key slides into, and not the switch which is an electrical component of the ignition system. Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite may temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is the only permanent solution. Eliminating the Steering Column Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This newer method is simpler and more effective than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part fails, you may need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a task that should be left to experts. Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper column of the steering with a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area around your steering column.
To access the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This requires the use of a special tool or you can ghetto perform the task using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of the bolt removal kit. If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to depress the pin on the lock cylinder. A locksmith can use the shear tool to remove 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 can re-key the ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition. Replace the Ignition Cylinder The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that houses and locks the key to your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to start or stop your car. Over time the cylinder will wear out. It could also be bent or damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder will require replacement to allow your car to start. Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues when turning your key or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, but this only works for a limited period of time. If you have a brand new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the instructions above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure that it is properly fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to make sure the cylinder is correctly aligned. After the cylinder has been installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, 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 often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order to get to the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. This is why it's recommended to leave the job to an experienced mechanic. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-ignition-lock-repair-near-me/ 'll be able to remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder inside your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it will start correctly when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles due to advances in remote start and push-tostart systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're having difficulty starting your car, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's simple to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder. The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system which connects to the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key. The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, permitting your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will not be able to slide into the cylinder or rotate it. The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. 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 your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible. Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is a job that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're able to follow the right procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the job for you at a time and place. Test the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key in order to enable it to turn and start your car. It is placed inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to authorize key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key. The most common indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to go bad include difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an imminent failure. As the cylinder age it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear out, damage or break and prevent the ignition of your car from working. The ignition may still work in some instances if you move it around. However this could indicate that something is not right. You can check the cylinder of your ignition and determine if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, you could back-probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's the voltage. If you don't find any, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement. The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's generally recommended to have an expert mechanic do the job. It can be complicated because you may have 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 reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if have the right tools and instructions. |
