5 Laws To Help With The Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair Industry Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock permits the key to be turned, allowing the car to begin. It is controlled by a chamber with springs that can be damaged due to environmental conditions like high or low temperatures.

If your ignition switch keys or the switch itself isn't turning, it could mean that the lock's cylinder needs to be replaced. This task should be left to an experienced auto locksmith.

Remove the steering column covers

Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical components that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to turn off an automobile. They may wear out or fail in different ways, such as keys being inserted too hard or not in the correct position. They can also break down and fail due to corrosion or other reasons. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it's not functioning. You can do this yourself however, it's a task that requires removing the covers for the steering column and the airbag cover. The process is risky and may be challenging. It may also require special tools to the replacement cylinder.


The ignition cylinder can be located in the middle column where the steering wheel is positioned. It has two screws at the bottom and an attachment clip on the side to hold it in place. Take these screws off prior to working on the cylinder in order to prevent it from falling out and becoming lost.

After the screws are removed, you can take off the plastic retainers on the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer is inserted into the top of the cover to hold it in the right place. You may have to pry off the cover to remove the tabs that are lower.

The tabs can be ripped off by taking out one of the retaining screws and bending the tab outwards a little. If the tab has broken off completely it can be replaced with a piece of perforated metal strapping, which can be found at most hardware stores. You'll need U-clips to attach the new "tab" to the bottom. These can be purchased at any auto parts shop.

After removing the tabs of plastic and removing the airbag cover, you can access the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock with the Allen wrench 1/16-inch and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. Then, you can pull the cylinder out. You may need to replace it with a special cylinder to protect against theft.

Take off the Ignition Cylinder

Despite the fact that many automobiles are now equipped with push-to-start, there remain certain cars that require an ignition lock. This cylinder, which is mechanical, is contained in the electrically powered part referred to as the "ignition switch" that is used to lock the ignition and "reads' anti-theft codes within the car key before allowing it to start.

It may be the right time to contact an auto locksmith if your car shows signs of a failing lock cylinder. A faulty ignition lock cylinder could lead to several problems including a lack in power to the engine, and difficulty inserting or removing the keys. Keys that are damaged by wear can cause damage to wafer tumblers, which allow the cylinder to turn. This leads to an obstruction and stops the vehicle from beginning.

Depending on the brand and model of your vehicle The ignition cover can be attached using either a screw or clip. By using a screwdriver, loosen up the screw, then lift the cover to reveal the cylinder that locks the ignition. It is typically a steel cylinder about the size a quarter.

To take the cylinder off, you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the slot for the key, and drill straight into it until the cylinder breaks free. You can then remove the cylinder and replace it.

The procedure to remove the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so you'll have to review your service manual to determine what steps are required. After you have the cylinder removed, you are able to install your new ignition switch.

Before you can do that you'll need to replace the steering column covers. Two screws are required to hold the lock assembly in place. After you've done that, installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't be too difficult.

Take out the Ignition Switch

The ignition cylinder and the switch are separate parts of the electrical system inside your car. While they may seem identical, they can be replaced or repaired in a different manner from one another. The switch is the electrical portion that provides power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into. In general, you can discern that the cylinder for ignition is failing due to its inability to turn your key.

When the cylinder is damaged the pins in the tumbler can get worn out, making it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you notice your key is worn out and won't turn anymore it's recommended that you have the wafers inside it replaced or smoothed by professional locksmiths.

Based on the make of your vehicle There could be a bolt or screw that secures the switch and removal of this will expose the cylinder that controls the ignition. It is essential to check your vehicle's service manual before trying this at home, because it could be risky and cause damage to the steering column as well as plastic covers. Furthermore the switch is linked with airbags' wires and tampering with it could cause serious injuries.

To remove the ignition cylinder you'll need a drill to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers however it's more difficult. If the ignition cylinder becomes loose and you need to replace it with a new one from a local auto store.

You'll require all the wires connected to the electrical connection on the steering column to test its operation. It's best to disconnect the battery first, then remove the ignition key and start the engine. If the ignition is working then you can connect the battery and test it again. If car ignition switch replacement won't start it is necessary to reset the immobilizer system by a dealership or service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be left to a professional.

Install the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch in your vehicle sends out an alert to the engine it's time for it to start. The key is inserted into the lock cylinder to trigger this process, but the wafers and pins inside the cylinder could wear out over time. It can be difficult or impossible to start your car if the cylinder becomes stuck.

If your car's ignition key doesn't turn, it's a sign that the ignition cylinder is damaged and requires replacement. Locksmiths can replace your ignition cylinder with a similar one so that your key will still work with your existing ignition switch.

To take off the lock to remove the lock, press down on the release pin located at the bottom of your assembly and remove the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder is unable to slide out, you can try pressing in the release pin, or use a small anti-rotation button underneath the face of cylinder. You can also push in on the cylinder by turning the key to the ACC position or use an accessory to force it out.

Install the new cylinder and test it by turning off the vehicle. If so, you can reconnect the trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder. Then you can perform a relearning procedure to connect the new keys.

The lock on the ignition cylinder might not be as important to the functionality of your car as it once was but there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. It is essential to talk to an expert, like an automotive locksmith or dealership for cars, to ensure that the job is done in a safe manner without causing any damage to the steering column's plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It's important to make sure that the new ignition is properly coded so that your car recognizes it as an authentic key. In the majority of cases, this will require a dealership or a professional to do the relearn.