How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch which is an electrical part of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. Using WD-40 or graphite may temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.
Removal of the Steering Column
Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use keys to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This modern system is simpler and more effective than the old lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This is a task that should be left to professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper steering columns with 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 that is closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or do it with the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.
If the key can't be placed into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either contact locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress the pin of the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can employ 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 remove it. They can change the cylinder's key to match your existing keys and save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing 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 code and fits your key to turn on or off your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It can also be bent or broken. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement in order for your car to start.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning the key, or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, consider using it inside the lock. You could try using some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, but this only works for a limited time.
If you have a brand new key to replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly installed in the flange on the steering column tube and is properly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is properly aligned.
Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.
Some experts suggest that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it is often necessary to disable the steering column airbag for access to the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it is properly started 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 make use of them. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is stuck it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.
The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and 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.
Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move upwards and downwards to allow the key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but in time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers wear down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key may become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are indications that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as you can.
Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it's a job that should be done by a trained DIYer only if you're able to follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can do the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform 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 part that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to allow the key to turn. G28 Car Keys that locks the ignition will wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.
The main indicators that a lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. In some cases you may even see an alert light on your dashboard that indicates the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder ages it may be damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down and break and stop your car's ignition from unlocking. In certain instances the ignition may work if you move it into different positions however this is a dangerous indicator that something is wrong.
You can test the cylinder of your ignition to see whether it's worn out, or the key is bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to see if there is any voltage. If you do not find any or no voltage, then the module and switch likely need replacing.
Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's usually best to have an expert mechanic do the task. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need remove other parts, such as the steering column, to reach the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to deactivate the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is usually handled by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the right tools and the right instructions.