The Next Big Trend In The Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder Industry
How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical part of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily resolve the issue but replacing the tumblers is the only option.
Removing the Steering Column
Modern cars do not have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to get the car started. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.
Using a screwdriver, remove the fasteners holding the trim panels that surround the lower and upper steering column. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.
On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you'll notice an Allen head bolt that holds the wiper/signal assembly in place. Unscrew ignition and key replacement and put it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have three or four small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Unscrew them and put them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the wiper/signal unit. This will require the use of a special tool, or you could to do it using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also able to use the shear bolt removal kit.
If the key isn't able to be inserted into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and 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 employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin off the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. They will be able to 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 cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. Over time the cylinder wears out. It may also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement in order for your car to begin.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder are issues when turning your key or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it in the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, however, this is only for a brief period of time.
If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is seated in the flange on the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you are unsure of the correct alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.
After the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it 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 on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and begins to work properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still make use of these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or if you're having trouble starting the vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder could be the reason. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the problem.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that slides into your car's ignition switch and supplies power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. The switch is an electrical device that connects to the computer in your car to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Pins on ignition lock cylinders move up and down, which allows your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers wear 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.
A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key may also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as it is possible.
It's not difficult to replace your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the proper procedure for your car's specific make and model. A complete repair manual for your car can help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient to you.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is affixed to your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It's mounted inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.
The most obvious indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail are difficulties in starting it or areas where the key is caught when you turn it. These are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard to signal an impending failure.
As the cylinder age, it can become damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers to break down, damage or break and stop the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition may still work in certain situations when you move it around. However, this could be a sign that something is not right.
You can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you do not find any voltage, the module and switch will likely require replacement.
It is best to engage an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it could cost between $200 to $300. It can be complicated due to the fact that you might have remove other components, such as the steering column to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This process is usually done by the dealership however, you can learn how to do it yourself using the right tools and instructions.
