How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car’s keys won’t turn it’s time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical component of the ignition system that supplies the power to the engine of your vehicle, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.
Over time, “wafers” can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily solve the problem however, replacing the tumblers is the only solution.
The steering column can be removed
Modern cars don’t have steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This modern system functions better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the old lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This is not an activity for the novice and should be left to an experienced professional.
With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners holding the trim panels that cover the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow access to the area surrounding the steering column.
On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you’ll notice an Allen head bolt that pins the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Remove the bolt and set it away. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, you’ll need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a specially designed tool, or you could to do it using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.
If the key can’t be put into the ignition switch, it’s a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to depress the pin on the lock cylinder.
A locksmith will be able to use a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder with an electric torch, and then shave it to remove it from the assembly. They will be able to replace the cylinder’s keys to match the keys you have and will save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks your car’s key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and “reads” anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It can also be bent or damaged. In this instance, you will need to replace the cylinder to get your car running.
A damaged or worn-out cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or causing the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning light to show up on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You might be able make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, but this method only works for a limited time.
Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it’s securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car’s manual or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is properly aligned.
After the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder into your key.
Some experts suggest replacing the ignition cylinder, as it is typically required to shut off the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it’s recommended to leave the job to a professional mechanic with experience. They’ll be able to remove the cover on the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They’ll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and is working correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles due to advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, Ignition key won’t turn they’re common on older cars. If you have trouble starting your car ignition replacement near me or the ignition switch is not working, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. It’s simple to fix your vehicle’s problem by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.
The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and supplies power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is an electrical device 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 up and down to let your key slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder or rotate 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 the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as it is possible.
Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is something that should be done by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you’re confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you’re not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and location.
Test the ignition Key won’t Turn Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical component that fits on your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It’s affixed to the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to allow key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.
Some of the main indicators that your car ignition barrel replacement near me‘s lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty in starting it, or areas where the key gets caught when you turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder must be replaced. In some cases you may notice an indicator light on your dashboard that signals the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder age it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car’s ignition to continue working. In some instances, the ignition will still work if you jostle it around however this is a dangerous indicator that something is wrong.
You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it’s worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. 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 are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will likely need to be replaced.
It is best to engage an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, as it could cost between $200 and $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The process of replacing it could require you to turn off the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself by using the right tools and instructions.