The Unspoken Secrets Of Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder

From Yuri Project

How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch which is the electrical part of the ignition system that supplies energy to the engine of your car The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that 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 however, replacing the tumblers is the only option.

Removing the steering column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This modern system works more efficiently and is less complicated than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it to start the car ignition switch. This is not a job for the novice and is best left to a professional.

With a screwdriver, take out the fasteners holding the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering column. This will allow you to access 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. It holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Remove this bolt and place it aside. Based on the year of your car you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, you'll need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a special tool, or you could do it with a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using a shear bolt removal kit.

If the key can't be put into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to press the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can call a locksmith for assistance.

Locksmiths can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can make use of a torch to cut the pin, then shave it down to take it off. They can re-key the cylinder to match your current keys and will help you save the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that is used to house and lock the key in your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to turn on or off your car. The cylinder wears down over time. It could also be bent or broken. In this case you'll need replace the cylinder to start your car.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder can be seen in problems when turning your key or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, try using it in the lock. You may be able to use graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, however, this is only for a short period of period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is properly placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.

After the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully set within the cylinder. If your car ignition locked has an anti-theft device, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to program the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is usually required to shut off the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. For these reasons, this is a job best left to a professional mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle locksmith (bobofng.com published a blog post). They'll also be able ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advancements in remote start and push-tostart systems, they're common on older cars. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're having difficulty starting your car it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be the cause. It's relatively simple to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.

The ignition cylinder is does a new ignition switch require a new key mechanical component of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are actually two separate parts. The switch is an electronic component that connects with your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key can also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as is possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be handled by a trained DIYer only when you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. does a new ignition switch require a new key full repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the work for you at a convenient time and location.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical device that is fitted to your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to allow key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock repair services lock can 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 signs that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble getting your car started or locating locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to signal the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older it is likely to be damaged due to wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can stop your car's ignition from working. In some instances, the ignition will still work if you jostle it in different directions but this is a dangerous 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. If you have a multimeter, you can probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's the voltage. If you don't find any or no voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder as it can cost between $200 to $300. It can be complicated due to the fact that you might have remove other components such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself with the appropriate tools and directions.