How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car’s keys won’t turn or turn, it’s time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into, and not the switch that is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, “wafers” can break or wear out. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently.
Eliminating the Steering Column
Modern cars don’t have steering column locks. Instead, they utilize keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may 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 columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This allows you to access the area around the steering column.
There is 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 position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can employ a special tool do this or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of a bolt removal kit.
If you can’t insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin or you can call an expert locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with a torch and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They can re-key the ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and secures the key of your car ignition barrel replacement near me. The cylinder is fitted to the key and “reads” the anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It may also become bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement in order for your vehicle to start.
Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You might be able smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, however this method is only effective for a certain amount of time.
If you’ve got a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is placed within the flange of the steering column tube and is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. If you’re unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle’s repair manual or an automotive expert.
Once the cylinder is in and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you’ll have to go through the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.
Some experts suggest that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it is often necessary to disable the steering column airbag for access to the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. They’ll be able to remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They’ll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it will start correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still use them. If your ignition switch or key is stuck, or you’re having trouble starting the vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It’s simple to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that is inserted into your car’s ignition switch and supplies 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 electrical portion that connects to your car’s computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.
Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the 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 are worn down the key will be unable 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. However, the key can also begin to stick and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as is possible.
It’s not difficult to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. You can complete the task quickly and efficiently by using a complete repair Ignition lock cylinder manual for your vehicle. If you’re not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to 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 referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical device that fits your key to allow it to turn and start your car. It’s mounted inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.
Some of the main signs that your car’s lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulty in starting it, or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. In certain instances you may even see an indicator light on your dashboard that signals an impending failure.
As the cylinder ages, it can become damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down, damage or break and stop your car’s ignition from unlocking. The ignition may still work in some instances if you move it around. However this could be a sign that something is not right.
You can check the cylinder of your ignition and determine if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, you can back-probe the module’s red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there’s voltage. If you do not find any, then the module and switch probably need to be replaced.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs $200 to $300, and it’s recommended to let a professional mechanic perform the task. It’s not easy due to the fact that you may need remove other parts like the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. Depending on your vehicle, the replacement procedure can be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and then you’ll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at the dealership however, you can also learn how to do it yourself with the right tools and instructions.
