You'll Never Guess This Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder's Benefits

How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, and not the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily solve the problem, 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. They use a key to start the car by pressing and rotating a switch in the dash panel. This modern system works better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a job that should be handled by professionals.

Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels that surround the upper and lower steering column. This allows you to access the area around the steering column.

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that holds the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and set them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. 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 are also capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.

If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to press the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with a torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can change the cylinder's key to match the keys you have and will help you save the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that is used to house and lock the key in your vehicle. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder will wear out. It could also be bent or broken. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement to allow your vehicle to start.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. 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 is only effective for so long.

If you've got a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the instructions above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly placed within the flange on the steering column tube and is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. Check the manual of your car or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that indicates that the auto ignition key replacement switch is fully set in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll need to perform the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder, since it is typically required to shut off the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process is likely to involve removing and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to leave this job to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able remove the steering column cover and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles due to advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having trouble starting your car or if the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that connects to the ignition switch in your car and provides power to rest the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a small amount of friction that helps keep the key in place but over time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A damaged ignition cylinder usually the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. However, the key may also begin to stick and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are indications that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the proper procedure for your car's specific model and make. You can do the job quickly and efficiently with a complete repair ignition lock cylinder manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder for you at a time and place that's convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and allows it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.

The main signs that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In certain instances you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older, it may be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which can stop your car's ignition from working. The ignition might still work in some instances when you move it around. However it could indicate that something is wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition key replacement cost coil's battery terminal to determine if there's the voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage or a switch, the module are likely to require replacement.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs $200 to $300, and it's generally recommended to hire an expert mechanic do the job. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you might have to remove other components such as the steering column, in order to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on the model of your vehicle, the replacement procedure can be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.