How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, as opposed to the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily resolve the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only solution.
Removal of the steering column
Modern cars do not use 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 newer system is much easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this part fails, you might need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This is not a job for the novice and is best left to a professional.
Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the trim panels covering the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow access to the area surrounding the steering column.
You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in place. Remove the bolt and set it away. Depending on your car's year, you may find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, one will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specific tool, or you could perform the task using a piece of metal like a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.
If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. You can either 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 employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with an electric torch, and then shave it 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 the purchase of a new ignition.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder fits the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It can also be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder in order to get your car running.
G28 of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning the key, or with 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, try using it inside the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, but this only works for a brief period of period of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have a replacement key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is aligned correctly.
Once the cylinder is installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key.
Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the ignition cylinder since it is usually necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process is likely to involve taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is a job best left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover on the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and starts correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older cars still make use of them. If you're having trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with the 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 car and provides power to rest the engine. While many people confuse the term "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. 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 ignition key.
Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, which allows your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers will wear out. If the tumblers get worn out, the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in most cars. However, the key can be stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the cylinder. These are signs that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as you can.
Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it's something that should be done by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A full repair manual for your car can help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and location.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It's affixed to the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition can wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.
The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is worn down and requires replacement. You might even see a warning light flashing on your dashboard to indicate the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder age it is likely to be damaged due to wear and wear and. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down and break or damage and stop the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition might still work in certain situations when you move it around. However, this could indicate that something is not right.
You can check the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or key 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 see if there is the voltage. If you don't find any voltage or a switch, the module will likely need to be replaced.
It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, as it can cost between $200 and $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you could need to remove other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. The replacement procedure may also require you to deactivate 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, but you can learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.
