15 Things You Didn't Know About Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch which is an electrical component of the ignition system.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily fix the problem however replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This newer method is simpler and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to experts.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with the help of a screwdriver. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.

There is 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. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based 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. Remove these screws and set them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, you will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a specific tool or perform the task using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize the bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to press the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can call a locksmith for help.

A locksmith can employ a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder or they can make use of a torch to slit the pin and then shave the pin to remove it. They can change the cylinder's key to match the keys you have and will save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks the key of your car. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It can also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement to allow your car to start.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder are issues with 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 an extra, use it inside the lock. You might be able smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, however this method is only effective for so long.

If you have a brand new key to replace the ignition cylinder and follow the instructions above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly installed within the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. Check the manual of your car or an expert to ensure that the cylinder is properly aligned.

After the cylinder is installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully seated inside the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you'll be required to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts suggest that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to get to the cylinder. In addition, the replacement process will likely involve taking off and replacing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is a task best left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able remove the steering column cover and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed using your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they are still prevalent on older vehicles. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck, or if you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle, a defective ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the key.

Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move upwards and downwards to allow your key to slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. If the tumblers wear down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in most vehicles. However, G28 may also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible.

It's not a big deal to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. You can do the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder on your own then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and place that is convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical part that fits your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft number to authorize key turning. The ignition lock cylinder can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.


Some of the main signs that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulty in starting it, or places where the key gets caught when you turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some instances you may notice a warning light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or simply wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down and break and prevent your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition might still work in some cases if you move it around. However this could indicate something is not right.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to determine whether it's worn out, or if the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any, then the module and switch likely need replacing.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's generally recommended to hire a professional mechanic perform the task. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you might need to remove other components to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have, the replacement procedure can also require disabling the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This process is usually done by the dealership, but you can learn how to do it yourself with the right tools and instructions.