20 Reasons To Believe Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder Will Never Be Forgotten How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler which your key slides into, as opposed to the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system.


Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removing the steering column

Most modern cars no longer use a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dash panel. This newer method is easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This isn't a task for the novice and should be left to an experienced professional.

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

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on the year of your car, it could have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can use a special tool to remove it or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. A locksmith can also use the bolt removal kit.

If you're unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder might be stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to release the lock cylinder pin or you can contact a locksmith for help.

lost ignition key will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to turn on or off your car. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It could be bent or broken. In this case you'll need replace the cylinder in order to get your car running.

A worn or broken cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or causing the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this method is only effective for so long.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure that it is placed within the steering column tube flange and is correctly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. If you're not sure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch has been completely seated into the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft system, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn process to program the new ignition cylinder with your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it is often necessary to disable the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement is likely to involve removal and replacement of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should let an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to take off the steering wheel cover and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder into your car. They'll also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles due to advances in remote start and push-tostart systems, they're widespread on older cars. If your ignition switch or key seems to be stuck, or if you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder could be the cause. It's easy to fix your vehicle's problem by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. Many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate components. The switch is the electronic component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and the key creates a small amount of friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers wear down, the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.

A damaged ignition cylinder is usually the first indication of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as it is possible.

It's not a big deal to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. A complete repair manual for your vehicle can help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a time and location.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock Cylinder is a mechanical piece that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder is prone to wear and eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.

Some of the main indicators that your car's lock cylinder is about to fail are difficulty starting it or finding places where the key becomes stuck when you turn it. These problems are usually an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In certain instances, you might even notice a warning light on your dashboard that 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 tumblers made of wafer to wear down, cause damage or even break, which will prevent your car's ignition from functioning. In certain instances, the ignition will still work if you jostle it in different directions however this is a dangerous indicator that something is wrong.

You can examine the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you do not find any, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, since it can cost anywhere between $200 to $300. The process is made more complicated by the fact that you might have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. The replacement process may require you to disable the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is usually handled by an authorized dealer. However, you could do it yourself if have the right tools and the right instructions.