How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's ignition key isn't turning or turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch, which is the electrical part of the ignition system that sends power to your vehicle's engine the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily solve the problem, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.
Removing the steering column
The majority of modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They use keys to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This modern system functions better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be required to replace it to start the car. This is not a job for the novice and is best left to professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper steering columns with the help of a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area surrounding the steering column.
You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Take this bolt off and set it away. Based on the year of your car you might find three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specific tool or do it with an object of metal such as a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.
If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin, or call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin off the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They can change the cylinder's key to match your current keys and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that houses and secures the key in your vehicle. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft codes to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could also be bent or broken. In this situation, you will need to replace the cylinder to start your car.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, you can try using it inside the lock. You might be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for a limited time.
If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to confirm the cylinder is correctly aligned.
After the cylinder has been installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully set inside 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 replacing the ignition cylinder, as it is typically necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely involve removal and replacement of the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able to make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and that it is working correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern vehicles because of remote start and push-tostart systems, older vehicles still have these cylinders. If you're having difficulty starting your car or if the ignition switch is stuck it could be due to an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix the issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are two distinct 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 ignition key.
The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates a tiny friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers wear down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will not be able slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
The first sign of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. car ignition replacement near me are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as it is possible.
It's not difficult to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. You can complete the task quickly and efficiently by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a time and location.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits 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 anti-theft codes to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
Some of the most common indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail are difficulty in starting it, or places where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. In certain instances you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard, which signals the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder gets older it is likely to be damaged due to wear and tear. This could cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. The ignition could still function in some instances if you move it around. However, this could indicate that something is not right.
You can check your ignition cylinder and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is any voltage. If you don't find any, the switch and module likely need replacing.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's generally recommended to hire an expert mechanic do the job. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need to remove other components such as the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer however, you can learn how to do it yourself by using the right tools and instructions.