How To Make A Profitable Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder If You're Not Business-Savvy How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key isn't turning and it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. Contrary to the switch that is the electrical portion of the ignition system that sends the power to the engine of your vehicle the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily solve the problem but replacing the tumblers is the only option.

The steering column can be removed

Modern cars do not have steering column locks. Instead, they have keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system functions more efficiently and is less complicated than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to get the car started. This isn't a task for the novice and should be left to professionals.

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

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. It holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in the correct position. Remove the bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can employ a special tool accomplish this, or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be equipped with the shear bolt removal kit.

If the key can't be placed into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to release the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can call a locksmith for help.

A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off the lock cylinder with an electric torch, and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They can change the cylinder's key to match your existing keys and will help you save the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to turn on or off your car. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It could be bent or broken. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement in order for your car to begin.

A damaged or worn-out cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or causing the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it in the lock. You may be able use graphite or WD-40 to tweak the cylinder but this is only effective for a short 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 by making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder is in and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully installed within the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll need to perform the anti-theft relearn process for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is usually necessary to disable the airbag inside the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key and is working correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less important in modern vehicles due to advances in remote start and push-tostart systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you have trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is not working, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system which connects to the ignition switch of your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are actually two separate parts. The switch is an electrical device that connects with the computer in your car to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder.


A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key can also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are signs that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it is a job that should be done by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're able to follow the right procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient to you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical device that is fitted to your key in order to enable it to turn and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize key turning. The ignition lock cylinder can wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The most common indicators that a lock cylinder is about to fail is difficulty starting your car or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. In some cases, you might even notice a warning light on your dashboard, which signals the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder gets older, it may be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear down and break and stop your car's ignition from unlocking. The ignition might still work in some instances by moving it around. However it could indicate something is wrong.

You can test your ignition cylinder to see whether it's worn-out or the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you are unable to detect any voltage then the switch and module are likely to need to be replaced.

Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300 and it's usually best to have an expert mechanic do the task. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you might require removing other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle, the replacement procedure can also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by a dealer. However, car ignition barrel replacement can do it yourself if have the proper tools and instructions.