The Reasons To Focus On Enhancing Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition lock in the cylinder is responsible allowing the key to turn and start the vehicle. It operates through springs and chambers which can be damaged by environmental factors like low or high temperatures.

If your ignition switch keys or the switch itself won't turn it could mean that the lock's cylinder has to be replaced. This is a task best left to an auto locksmith professional.

Remove the steering column covers

Ignition lock cylinders are mechanical components that allow keys to be placed into the ignition switch and turned to turn on the vehicle. They may wear out or fail in various ways, including keys that are placed too hard or not in the correct place. They can also degrade and fail due to corrosion or other reasons. If your ignition cylinder isn't turning, it's probably time to replace it. It's a simple task however, you'll need to remove the steering column cover and airbag cover. The process is risky and could be difficult. It could also require special tools for the replacement cylinder.

The ignition cylinder can be located in the middle column, where the steering wheel is attached. The clip and two screws at the bottom of the cylinder hold it in place. car ignition lock to remove these screws before you begin working on the cylinder so it doesn't fall off and disappear.

Once the screws are removed, you can take the plastic retainers from the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer is inserted into the top cover to keep it in position. It is possible to remove the cover from the steering wheel in order to remove the tabs made of plastic that are lower.

You can break them off by removing the retaining screw and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab is broken off completely you can replace it by using a piece of perforated strapping made of metal that is available at many hardware shops. You'll also need some U-clips to attach the new bottom "tab," and these can be sourced from any auto parts store.

Once the plastic tabs have been removed and the airbag cover has been pulled back, you can access the hole for the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock using the Allen wrench of 1/16-inch and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. Then, you can pull the cylinder out. You may have to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.

Remove the Ignition Cylinder

While many of the latest vehicles have switched to push-to-start systems, there's many cars in the market that require an ignition lock cylinder. This cylindrical, mechanical part is located inside the electrically powered device known as the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding within the car key so that it can start.

If your car is showing signs of a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder, it might be time to call an auto locksmith to get help. A faulty cylinder can cause several problems, including a lack of power to the engine as well as problems with inserting and removing the key. Keys that are damaged by wear can cause damage to wafer tumblers that let the cylinder to turn. This can cause a jam and prevents the vehicle from starting.

Based on the model and make the cover for your ignition switch could be secured by a screw or clip. With a screwdriver loosen the screw, and then remove the cover to reveal the cylinder that locks the ignition. It is typically a steel cylinder about the size one quarter.

To take the cylinder off, you'll need to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Make use of a drill bit that is slightly larger than the slot for the key and then drill straight into it until the cylinder is broken. You'll then be able take the cylinder off and replace it with a replacement.

The exact process for removing the ignition cylinder is different for each manufacturer, so you'll need to read the service manual to determine what steps are required. Once you have the cylinder removed, you can install the new ignition switch.

It is first necessary to replace the covers for the steering column. Two screws will also be required to hold the lock assembly in place. Once you've done that, the installation of your new ignition cylinder is likely to be fairly simple.

Take off the Ignition Switch

The ignition cylinder lock and switch are two different parts of your car's electrical system. While they may seem like they are, they are able to be repaired or replaced independently of one another. The switch is the electrical portion that supplies power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into. You can tell if the ignition cylinder has failed by its inability turn your key.

When the cylinder is damaged, the tumbler's pins could wear out, making it difficult or impossible to insert or pull your key. If you notice that your key is deteriorating and won't turn it's recommended that you have the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by an expert locksmith.

Depending on your vehicle's make, there may be a screw or bolt that secures the switch and removal of this will expose the ignition cylinder. It is essential to check the service manual of your vehicle prior to making the attempt at home since it can be hazardous and cause damage to the steering column as well as the plastic covers. Additionally the switch is connected with the airbags' wiring and tampering with it can result in serious injury.

To take the ignition cylinder out you'll need an instrument to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers, however, it is more difficult. After the ignition cylinder has been removed, you can purchase a new one at your local auto shop.

You'll need all the wires connected to the electrical connector on the steering column to test its proper operation. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery, and then remove the ignition key, and then start the vehicle. When the ignition is functioning then you can connect the battery and try it again. If the vehicle still won't turn on, you will require that the immobilizer system reset. This can be accomplished by a dealer or an automotive service technician. This is a lengthy procedure that should be handled by professionals.

Install the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch on your car sends an alert to the engine it's time for it to begin. The key is inserted into the lock cylinder to start the process, but the pins and wafers within the cylinder may wear out over time. It may be difficult or impossible to start your vehicle when the cylinder gets stuck.

If your car's ignition key doesn't turn, it's likely that the cylinder that controls ignition has worn down and needs replacing. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder using a similar one, meaning that the new key will work with the original ignition switch and will be capable of activating the engine's start-up signal.


To remove the old lock, press down on the release pin that is located at the bottom of your assembly and slide the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder isn't sliding out, try pushing in on the release pin a second time or using a screwdriver to press a small anti-rotation button beneath the cylinder's surface. You may also try pushing in on the cylinder with your key while rotating it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can push it out.

Install the new cylinder and test it by turning off the vehicle. If it is, you can connect the trim pieces you removed to get to the cylinder. Then, you can go through a relearning procedure to connect the new keys.

Although the cylinder lock in the ignition isn't as essential to your car's functionality anymore as it was in the past, there are still many situations where you may need to replace it. Consult a professional such as an automotive dealer or locksmith to ensure that the job is done without causing damage to the steering column's or other parts of your vehicle. It is essential to ensure that the new ignition is coded correctly so that your car can recognize it as authentic keys. In the majority of cases this, it will require a dealer or other professional to perform the relearning.