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How to Repair ignition lock cylinder an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key will not turn or turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical part of the ignition system, which sends energy to the engine of your car, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into.

Over time over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily fix the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only option.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This newer system is much simpler and more effective than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are some older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part fails, you may 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 lower and upper column of the steering with the help of a screwdriver. This will allow access to the area around the steering column.

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you will see an Allen head bolt that holds the wiper/signal assembly in place. Remove the 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 on the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, you'll need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or you can ghetto 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 the key can't be inserted into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin or call an expert locksmith for assistance.

A locksmith can employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with an electric torch, and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They will be able to change the cylinder's key to match your existing keys and will help you save the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to allow you to start or stop your car. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It can be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may have to be replaced to allow your car to begin.

Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning the key, or 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, try using it inside the lock. You might be able smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, however this method is only effective for so long.

If you have a new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is installed in the steering column tube flange, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Refer to the car key ignition replacement near me's manual or an expert to ensure the cylinder is correctly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that signifies that the ignition switch has been fully installed in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is typically required to shut off the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to let an experienced mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder inside your car. They'll also ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and that it begins to work properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less essential in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in remote start and push-to-start systems, they are still widespread on older cars. If your ignition switch or key is stuck, or if you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder could be the reason. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate 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.

Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move upwards and downwards to allow the key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a tiny friction that helps keep the key in place, but in time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will not be able slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. The key may be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your mobile ignition lock repair services lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as possible.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. A full repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile ignition lock repair services mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and location.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key to allow it to turn and start your car. It's affixed to the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

The most common indicators that a lock cylinder is preparing to fail is difficulty starting your vehicle or finding locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You may even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which could make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. In certain instances the ignition may work if you jostle it into different positions, but this could be a sign that something could be wrong.

You can check the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can test with a multimeter whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It is best to engage an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you could have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have the replacement process may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at a dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.