How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, and not the switch which is an electrical part of the ignition system.
Over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily solve the problem however, replacing the tumblers is the only option.
Removal of the Steering Column
The majority of modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use keys that are used to start the car by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part is damaged, you will require replacing it in order to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower column of the steering with a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.
On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll find an Allen head bolt that holds the wiper/signal assembly in place. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on your car's year, you may 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 place them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a special tool, or you could perform the task using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also able to use a shear bolt removal kit.
If the key isn't able to be placed into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the lock cylinder's pin.
A locksmith can employ the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin to take it off. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical component which houses and locks the key of your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could also be bent or broken. In this case, you will need to replace the cylinder to start your car.
A damaged or worn cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, put it inside the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for so long.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have a replacement key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is installed in the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.
After the cylinder has been installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft system, you will be required to go through the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder with your key.
Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, since it is often necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to access the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advancements in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're widespread on older cars. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or if you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder could be the cause. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder and repair the issue.
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. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the key.
The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a little friction that keeps the key in place, but in time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key won't be able 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 could also begin to stick and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are signs that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as you can.
Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's something that should be done by a trained DIYer only when you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident 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 is convenient for you.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is affixed to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
The most obvious signs that a car's lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an impending failure.
As the cylinder gets older it may be damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear down, damage or break, preventing your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition could still function in certain situations by moving it around. However this could indicate something is not right.
You can examine the cylinder in your ignition and see if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to determine if there's voltage between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If car key ignition replacement near me do not find any or no voltage, then the module and switch probably need to be replaced.
It's best to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it could cost between $200 and $300. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need remove other parts like the steering column, in order to reach the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by a dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the right tools and instructions.