This Most Common Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair Debate Isn't As Black And White As You Might Think Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned and the car to begin. It operates via a chamber and springs that can be damaged by environmental factors such as high or low temperatures.

If your ignition switch, key or both isn't turning, it could indicate that the lock cylinder needs to be replaced. It is best to delegate this task to a professional locksmith for your automobile.

Remove the Steering Column Covers

Ignition lock-cylinders, or ignition lock-cylinders, are mechanical devices that allow a key into the ignition switch to be turned to start an automobile. They can wear out or malfunction in various ways, including keys that are put in too hard or in the correct position. They may also fail due to corrosion and other causes. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if you notice it's not working. You can do it yourself however, it's a task which requires you to remove the covers on the steering column and the airbag cover. The process is risky and difficult, and the replacement cylinder may require special tools to install.

The ignition cylinder is found in the middle column where the steering wheel is mounted. The clip and two screws located at the bottom of the cylinder hold it in place. Take these screws off before you start working on the cylinder to stop it from slipping out and getting lost.

Once you have the screws 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 the right place. You may have to pry off the cover to take out the tabs that are lower.

You can break these off by removing the retaining screw and bending the tab outward. If the tab is damaged completely, it can be replaced with a piece of perforated metal strapping which is available at most hardware stores. You'll need U-clips for attaching the new "tab" to the bottom. These can be purchased at any auto parts shop.

After removing the tabs of plastic and pulling back the airbag cover, it is now possible to reach the ignition cylinder. With the 1/16-inch allen wrench, you can open the ignition lock and push it onto the retaining pin for the cylinder. You can then remove the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.

Remove the Ignition Cylinder


Although many newer vehicles have switched to push-to-start systems, there are still many cars in the market that require an ignition lock cylinder. This cylindrical, mechanical component is housed inside the electrically powered device known as the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding inside the car key to allow it to start.

It's time to contact an auto locksmith if the vehicle is showing signs of a broken lock cylinder. A damaged cylinder could cause several problems, including a lack of power to the engine as well as problems with inserting and taking out the key. Worn keys can damage wafer tumblers, which let the cylinder to turn. This can cause a blockage and stops the vehicle from starting.

Based on the make and model of your car, the ignition cover may be attached by either a screw or clip. By using a screwdriver, loosen up the screw, and then lift the cover to reveal the cylinder that locks the ignition. This is usually a metal cylinder that is about the size of a quarter.

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

You'll need to refer to your service manual for specific steps to remove the ignition cylinder. After you have the cylinder removed, you can put in the new ignition switch.

Before you can do that you'll need to replace the covers for the steering column. It is also necessary to tighten two screws on top of the lock assembly that keep it in place. After you've done that the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.

Remove the Ignition Switch

The ignition switch and the cylinder lock are two distinct parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they might appear like they do, you can fix or replace them separately. The switch is electrical and supplies energy to your vehicle. The cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slide into. Generally, you will be able to discern that the cylinder for ignition is not working properly because it is unable to turn the key.

If the cylinder fails the pins in the tumbler can get worn out which makes it difficult or impossible to pull out or insert your key. If you find that your key is damaged and isn't turning the way you want it to, the best option is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.

Based on the model of your car it could have a bolt or screw that is used to secure the switch and removal of this will expose the cylinder of ignition. Check the manual of your vehicle before making the attempt at home. car ignition locked can be dangerous and cause damage to the steering column or plastic covers. The switch is also connected with the airbag wiring. Making a mistake with it could cause serious injuries.

To remove the ignition cylinder you'll need a drill to loosen it. You can also use pliers to separate it from the assembly however, this is typically more difficult than using the screwdriver. When the ignition cylinder becomes loose, you can replace it with a new one from your local auto store.

After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll need to connect all the wires to the electrical connections in the steering column, and then test the function. It's usually simpler to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition key, and then start the vehicle. It is possible to reconnect the battery after the ignition has worked. If it doesn't work, you'll need to have the immobilizer system reset by a dealer or automotive service technician. This can be a complicated procedure and should be left to a professional with certification.

Reinstall the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch in your car sends a signal to the vehicle's engine that it's time to get started. The key is inserted into the lock cylinder to initiate this process, however the wafers and pins inside the cylinder may wear out over time. This can make it difficult to turn your car on, or even impossible if your cylinder gets stuck.

If your key doesn't turn on the ignition, it's likely that it's due to needing to be replaced. A locksmith can replace the cylinder in your ignition with a similar one so that your key can still work with your existing ignition switch.

To take out the old lock cylinder simply push it in to the release pin located at the bottom of the assembly and remove the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder won't move out, try pressing in the release pin, or use a small anti rotation button on the front of the cylinder. You could also try pushing down on the cylinder using your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can get it out.

Install the new cylinder and test it by turning off the vehicle. If it's not then you can connect any trim pieces that were removed to gain access to the cylinder and follow an anti-theft procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.

The ignition cylinder lock may not be as important to the functioning of your vehicle as it used to be but there are situations where it is necessary to replace it. It is important to speak with a professional, like an automotive locksmith or car dealership to ensure the task is done in a safe manner without causing harm to the steering column plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It's important to make sure that the new ignition is properly coded to ensure that your car recognizes it as a genuine key. In most instances, this will require a dealer or a professional to do the relearn.