How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's keys won't turn and it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, and not the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time, "wafers" can break or become worn out. WD-40 and graphite are able to temporarily solve the problem however, replacing the tumblers is the only option.
The steering column can be removed
Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this part fails, it could be required to replace it to get the car started. This is a task that should be left to experts.
Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column.
You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in place. Unscrew the bolt and put it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might see 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the wiper/signal unit. You can make use of a specific tool to do this or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. A locksmith can also use the bolt removal kit.
If the key can't be put into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the pin on the lock cylinder.
A locksmith will be able to employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder using a torch and then shave it down to remove it from the assembly. They will be able to change the cylinder's key to match your existing keys and will help you save the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and secures your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and fits your key to turn on or off your car. Over time the cylinder wears out. It could also break or become bent. In this situation you'll need replace the cylinder in order to start your car.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder can be seen in problems with turning your key, or with the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, use it in the lock. You may be able to use some WD-40 or graphite to tweak the cylinder however, this is only for a limited period of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to make sure that the cylinder is aligned correctly.
After the cylinder is installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully seated within the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn process to program the new ignition cylinder with your key.
Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder since it is usually required to shut off the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover on the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They will also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it.
Installing www.g28carkeys.co.uk though 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 them. If your ignition switch or key is stuck or you're experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle the problem could be due to a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder could be to blame. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the issue.
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that slides into your car's ignition switch and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects with your car's computer to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place but over time, these small movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able slide into or rotate the cylinder.
The first sign of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil in most cars. The key may also get stuck and be 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 possible.
It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the proper procedure for your car's specific make and model. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the job for you at a convenient time and place.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that fits on your key to permit it to turn and start your car. It's affixed to the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to permit the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is prone to wear and can eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key.
The most obvious signs that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulties in starting it or locations where the key is caught when you turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has worn out and requires replacement. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an impending failure.
As the cylinder ages, it may be damaged due to wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which will stop your car's ignition from functioning. The ignition could still function in some cases if you move it around. However this could be a sign that something is not right.
You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn out, or the key is bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, you can probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's voltage. If you don't find any voltage, the module and switch are likely to need to be replaced.
The replacement of the ignition cylinder usually costs $200 to $300, and it's recommended to hire an experienced mechanic complete the task. The process is complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have, the replacement procedure can also require you to disable the airbag system, and then you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and the right instructions.