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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key will not turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.

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

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They use keys to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating a switch in the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still use the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, you will need to replace it in order to restart the vehicle. This isn't a task for the novice and is best left to an experienced professional.

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

On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that holds the assembly of the wiper and signal. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch. Remove these screws and set them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, one will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. This requires the use of a specific tool or perform the task using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also equipped with the shear bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it to take it off the lock. They will be able to change the cylinder's key to match the keys you have and save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to allow you to start or stop your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It can also be bent or damaged. If this occurs, the cylinder will require replacement in order for your vehicle to begin.

A damaged or worn cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or cause the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to illuminate on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it in the lock. You might be able finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for a certain amount of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder make sure it is properly placed in the flange on the steering column tube and is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Consult your car's manual or an expert to ensure the cylinder is correctly aligned.

Once the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you'll have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend replacing the ignition cylinder since it is usually required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why it's recommended to leave the job to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover on the steering column and then properly install a new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are no longer as important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still make use of these cylinders. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and fix ignition switch the problem.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system which is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are 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 ignition key.

The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to allow the key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and the key creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these tiny movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car will not be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

A damaged ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. The key may also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as is possible.

It's not difficult to change your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are certain that you will follow the proper procedure for your car's specific model and make. You can do the job quickly and correctly with a complete Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder guide for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and place that is convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It is placed inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft number to allow key turning. The ignition lock cylinder will wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with your vehicle's power or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to fail is difficulty starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to signal an impending failure.

As the cylinder age, it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear out and break and stop the ignition of your car from working. In some cases the ignition may work if you jostle it around however this is a dangerous indicator that something is wrong.

You can examine the cylinder in your ignition and see whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check if there's voltage between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage, the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's generally recommended to let an expert mechanic do the job. The process is complicated by the fact that you might require removing other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle the replacement process may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This process is usually done by the dealership however, you can learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.