User description

How to Repair an Ignition Lock CylinderIf your car's keys won't turn and it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. Contrary to the switch which 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 can slide into.Over time they "wafer" tumblers wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily fix the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only option.Eliminating the Steering ColumnModern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, ignition barrel replacement near me utilize a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This modern system functions more efficiently and is less complicated than the older lock-cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. When this part fails, you might require replacing it to be able to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be left to experts.Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners that hold 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 find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. This bolt holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Based on the year of your car you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.To get to the lock cylinder you will need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This requires the use of a special tool, or you could to do it using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. You can call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to release 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 the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They can re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.Replacing the Ignition CylinderThe ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and secures the key to your car. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It can also break or become bent. If this happens, the cylinder will have to be replaced to allow your car to start.Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems when turning your key or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it inside the lock. You could try using some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this only works for a short period of period of time.If you have a new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure that it is properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert.Once the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set within the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll have to follow the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.Some experts recommend that you have a professional replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the steering column airbag in order to access the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. Because of this, it is a task best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the steering column cover and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.Installing the Ignition CylinderWhile ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're common on older cars. If you're having trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates a little friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers get worn out the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. The key may be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as possible.It's not difficult to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the job done efficiently and correctly. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and place.Test the Ignition CylinderThe ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits on your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It's located inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is susceptible to wear and may eventually fail, causing issues powering 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 is difficulty starting it or finding places where the key gets caught when you turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder is worn down and requires replacement. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an impending failure.As the cylinder age, it can become damaged by corrosion or simply wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear out and break or damage and stop the ignition of your car from unlocking. In some instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it into different positions however this is a warning indicator that something is wrong.You can check the cylinder's ignition to determine whether it's worn-out or the key is bent or damaged. You can test with a multimeter whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage, the module and switch are likely to need to be replaced.It's best to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it can cost between $200 and $300. It can be complicated due to the fact that you might have remove other parts like the steering column, to access the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by the dealership, but you can learn how to do it yourself using the appropriate tools and directions.