The Evolution Of Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock permits the key to be turned and the car to begin. It operates via springs and chambers which can be damaged by environmental conditions like low or high temperatures.

If your ignition switch or key won't turn, it could be a sign that the cylinder for your lock is broken and needs to be replaced. It is best to delegate this task to a professional automotive locksmith.

Remove the steering column covers

Ignition lock cylinders can be described as mechanical parts that allow a key to be placed into the ignition switch and turned to start the vehicle. They can wear out or malfunction in a variety of ways, like keys being put in too hard or in the proper position. They can also fail due to corrosion or other reasons. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it isn't working. You can do it yourself, but it's a job that requires you to remove the covers for the steering column and the airbag cover. The process is dangerous and could be difficult. It could also require special tools for the replacement cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is in the middle of the column, where the steering wheel is attached. It has two screws at the bottom and an attachment clip on the side that holds it in place. Take these screws off before you start working on the cylinder to stop it from falling off and becoming lost.

Once the screws are removed, you can take out the plastic retainers that are located at the bottom of the cover. There's also a retainer made of metal that clips into the top of the cover to keep it in place. You may have to pull the cover off the steering wheel to remove the tabs on the lower part of the plastic.

These can be broken off by taking off one of the retaining screws and then bending the tab outward a bit. If the tab has broken completely it can be repaired by a piece of perforated metal strapping which is available in most hardware stores. You'll need U-clips for attaching the new "tab" at the bottom. They can be bought at any automotive parts store.

After the tabs made of plastic are removed and the airbag cover has been pulled back, you will be able to access the cylinder hole in the ignition. You can open the ignition lock with the Allen wrench of 1/16-inch and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. You can then pull out the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with a special one for an anti-theft system.

Remove the Ignition Cylinder

While many modern vehicles have been upgraded to push-to start systems, there are still many cars in the market that require an ignition lock cylinder. This cylinder, which is mechanical, is located inside the electrically-powered component known as the "ignition switch" that is used to lock the ignition and "reads the anti-theft codes inside the car key before allowing it start.

If your car is showing signs of a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder, it may be time to contact an auto locksmith to get help. A damaged cylinder could cause numerous issues, including lack of power from the engine, as well as issues when it comes to inserting and removing the key. Keys that are worn out can damage wafer tumblers, which let the ignition cylinder to turn. This leads to a blockage and stops the vehicle from beginning.

Depending on the model and make, the ignition switch cover may be held on by a screw or clip. Using a screwdriver, loosen the screw and then slide off the cover to expose the cylinder that locks the ignition. This is typically a metal cylinder that's roughly the size of one quarter.

To take the cylinder off, you must drill the pin that holds it. Use a drill bit that's slightly larger than the key slot and drill straight into the cylindrical until it breaks. You'll then be able take the cylinder off and replace it with a replacement.

The exact process to remove the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so you'll need to review your service manual to determine what steps you need to take. After the cylinder is removed, you can install your new ignition switch.

Before you can do that, you'll need to reinstall the covers for the steering column. You'll also need to tighten two screws on top of the lock assembly that hold it 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 and the switch are separate components of the electrical system inside your car. Although they may look similar, you can repair or replace them separately. The switch is the part that sends power to the vehicle, while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into. In general, you can tell the ignition cylinder is failing because it is unable to turn your key.

When the cylinder fails the tumbler's pins could wear out, making it difficult or impossible to pull or insert your key. If you notice 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.

Depending on your vehicle's make, there may be a screw or bolt that holds the switch in place and removing it will expose the cylinder that controls the ignition. Check the manual of your vehicle before attempting this at home. It could be hazardous and result in damage to the steering column or the plastic covers. Furthermore the switch is linked with wiring for airbags and any interference with this can result in serious injury.

To take the ignition cylinder out it is necessary to use drills to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers but it can be more difficult. Once the ignition cylinder is removed, you can purchase a new one from your local auto shop.

After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll have to connect all of the wires to the electrical connection inside the steering column and test the function. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery first, then disconnect the ignition key and then start the engine. It is possible to reconnect the battery after the ignition has been activated. If the car still doesn't turn on, you'll need to have the immobilizer system reset. This can be accomplished by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be left to an expert.

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 start the 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 key doesn't turn on the ignition, it is likely that it's time to get replaced. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder with a new one, meaning your new key will function with your old ignition switch and will still be capable of activating the engine's startup signal.

To remove the lock cylinder that was previously in use, push in on the release pin at the bottom of the assembly, and slide the cylinder out from its housing. If the cylinder will not be able to slide out, try pressing in the release pin or using an anti-rotation button on the front of the cylinder. You could also try pushing down on the cylinder with your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can force it out.

Install ignition cylinder lock repair and test it by turning the car on. If so, you can connect the trim pieces that you removed to connect to the cylinder. Then, you can go through the relearning process to connect the new keys.

Although the lock for the ignition cylinder isn't as integral to your car's functionality anymore as it was in the past but there are still instances where you'll need to replace it. It is essential to talk to an expert such as an automotive locksmith or a dealership for cars to ensure that the task is done in a safe manner without causing harm to the steering column's plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It is also essential to ensure that the new ignition cylinder has been correctly coded to ensure that your vehicle can recognize it as a genuine key. In most instances this will require a dealership or other professional to perform the relearn.