How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key won't turn and it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, as opposed to the switch which is an electrical part of the ignition system.
Over time they "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite could temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only permanent solution.
Removing the steering column
Most modern cars no longer utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer system works much more efficiently and is less complicated than the older lock-cylinder method. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this part fails, you may require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to a professional.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels that cover the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.
You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Take this bolt off and set it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you might have 3 or 4 small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these 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 you could do it with an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths will also be equipped with a shear bolt removal kit.
If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin or call an expert locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can use a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They will be able to replace the cylinder's keys to match the keys you have and will save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks the key of your vehicle. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It can be bent or broken. In this situation, you will need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car.
A worn or broken cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to illuminate on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You could try using graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this is only effective for a short period of period of time.
If you have a new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the instructions above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is installed within the flange on the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to ensure the cylinder is correctly aligned.
Once the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.
Some experts recommend that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it is often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to get to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely require removal and replacement of the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's best to leave this job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover for your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and that it starts correctly 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-tostart systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or if you're having difficulty starting your car the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's simple to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.
A damaged ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key may also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are signs that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible.
Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it's something that should be completed by a trained DIYer only when you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. G28 Car Keys can do the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a time and place.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical device that fits on your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch that secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to allow key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition will wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.
The most obvious indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting it or finding locations where the key gets caught when you turn it. These are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder ages it can be damaged due to wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which will stop your car's ignition from functioning. In certain instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it in different directions, but this is a dangerous indicator that something is wrong.
You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn out, or if the key is bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter if there's voltage between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch are likely to require replacement.
It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, as it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. The process is complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system, and then reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at the dealership however, you can learn how to do it yourself using the right tools and instructions.