Could Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder Be The Key To 2023's Resolving? How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch, which 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. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily resolve the issue but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the Steering Column

The majority of modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. They use a key to start the car by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dashboard panel. This modern system functions better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be necessary to replace it to allow the car to start. This is a job that should be left to experts.

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

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you might have three or four small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.

To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This requires the use of a specific tool or perform the task using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of an instrument to remove bolts.

If the key can't be placed into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress the lock cylinder's pin.

Locksmiths can use 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 re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on the purchase of a new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component that 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 vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It can also break or become bent. If this occurs, the cylinder will require replacement in order for your car to begin.

A damaged or worn cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or causing the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, put it inside the lock. You might be able smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40. However, this method only works for a certain amount of time.

If you have a brand new key to replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to make sure the cylinder is correctly aligned.


After the cylinder has been installed, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully seated inside the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn process to programme the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is often required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is a job that should be left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover for the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They will also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems older vehicles still have these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch or key is stuck, or if you're having trouble starting the vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder could be to blame. It's simple to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the ignition key.

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow the key to slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a small amount of friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these small movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. If the tumblers get worn out, the key will not be able slide into the cylinder or rotate it.

The first sign of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil in the majority of cars. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as is possible.

It's not a big deal to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. A full repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder on your own then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and place that's convenient to you.

Test key stuck in ignition is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It's affixed to the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads anti-theft coding to authorize the key to turn. The ignition lock cylinder is susceptible to wear and can eventually fail, causing problems with the power supply to your vehicle or making it difficult to remove and insert the key.

The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder must be replaced. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to indicate an imminent failure.

As the cylinder ages, it may be damaged through wear and tear. This could cause the pins and wafer tumblers to break down and break and stop the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition might still work in certain situations by moving it around. However this could indicate something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage or a switch, the module are likely to need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's usually best to hire an expert mechanic do the job. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need remove other parts like the steering column to reach the ignition cylinder. Based on the vehicle you have, the replacement procedure can also require disabling the airbag system, and you'll need change the programming of 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 using the right tools and instructions.