Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the car. It works through a chamber and springs that can be damaged by environmental conditions like low or high temperatures.

If your ignition switch or key doesn't move, it could be a sign that the cylinder of your lock is damaged and must be replaced. This is a job best left to an experienced auto locksmith.

Remove the steering column covers

Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical parts that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to turn off an automobile. They can wear out or malfunction in different ways, like keys being inserted too hard or not in the correct place. They may also fail due to corrosion and other reasons. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it's not working. You can do this yourself, but it's a job which requires you to remove the steering column covers and the airbag cover. The process can be dangerous and challenging and the replacement cylinder may require special tools to install.

The ignition cylinder is located in the middle column where the steering wheel is mounted. The clip and two screws on the bottom secure the cylinder in the right position. It's essential to remove these before you begin working on the cylinder so it doesn't break and get lost.

Once you have the screws removed, you can remove the plastic retainers out of the lower part of the cover. There's a metal retainer that clips into the top of the cover to hold it in place. You may need to pry off the cover to take out the tabs on the bottom.

You can cut them off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab has been broken completely you can replace it by using a piece of perforated metal strapping that can be found in most hardware shops. You'll need U-clips for attaching the new "tab" to the bottom. These can be purchased at any automotive parts store.

After the tabs made of plastic are removed and the airbag cover has been pulled back, you can access the hole for the ignition cylinder. Using the 1/16-inch allen wrench, you can open the ignition lock and push down the cylinder retaining pin. You can then remove the cylinder. You may need to replace it with a specific cylinder to protect against theft.

Remove the Ignition Cylinder

Although many newer vehicles have been upgraded to push-to start systems, there are still plenty of vehicles on the road that need an ignition lock cylinder. This mechanical cylinder is located inside the electrically powered part called the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding within the car key to allow it to turn on.

It's the right time to contact an auto locksmith if your vehicle is showing signs of a broken lock cylinder. A damaged cylinder can lead to numerous issues, including lack of power to the engine, as well as issues with inserting and taking out the key. Keys that are worn out can damage wafer tumblers, which allow the ignition cylinder to turn. This leads to a blockage and stops the vehicle from beginning.

Based on the make and model of your vehicle The ignition cover can be secured by screws or clips. With a screwdriver, loosen the screw, and then lift the cover to reveal the ignition lock cylinder. This is typically a metal cylinder approximately the size of the size of a 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 cylinder until it is broken. You can then remove the cylinder and then replace it.

You'll need to check your service manual for exact steps to remove the ignition cylinder. Once you have the cylinder removed, you can put in the new ignition switch.

Before you can do that you'll need to replace the steering column covers. It is also necessary to tighten two screws on the top of the lock assembly that keep it in place. After you've done that, installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't be that difficult.

Take off the Ignition Switch

The ignition cylinder lock and switch are two distinct parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they appear similar, the two can be replaced or repaired separately from one other. The switch is electrical and supplies energy to your vehicle. The cylinder is a mechanical tumbler which your key can slide into. In general, you can tell the ignition cylinder is not working due to its inability to turn the key.

When the cylinder is damaged, the pins inside the tumbler may wear out which makes it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you find that your key has become worn and won't turn, your best bet is to get the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.

Based on the model of your car it could have an anchor bolt or screw that holds the switch in place, and removing this will expose the cylinder of ignition. It is important to read your vehicle's service manual before attempting this at home, as it can be dangerous and cause damage to the steering column and plastic covers. The switch is also linked with the wiring for airbags. Making a mistake with it could cause serious injuries.

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

After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll have to connect all the wires to the electrical connection in the steering column, and then test it for proper function. It's usually simpler to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition key and start the car. You can reconnect the battery after the ignition has worked. If it's still not starting, you'll need to have the immobilizer system reset by a dealer or service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be handled by professionals.

Install the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch in your car sends out a signal telling the engine it's time to begin. The key is inserted into a lock-cylinder to initiate this process. However the waxes and pins in the cylinder can wear out over time. This could make it difficult to turn on your car or even impossible if the cylinder becomes stuck.

If your car's key won't turn, it's likely the ignition cylinder is worn down and needs replacing. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder with an identical one, meaning the new key will work with the original mobile ignition lock repair services switch, and will be capable of triggering the engine's startup signal.

To remove the old lock, press down on the release pin located at the base of your assembly. Then slide the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder isn't sliding out, try pressing on the release pin a second time or using a screwdriver to press a small anti-rotation button beneath the cylinder's surface. You can also push in on the cylinder while adjusting the key to the ACC position, or attach an accessory to force it out.

After you've removed the old cylinder, replace it with the new one and then turn on the vehicle to ensure whether it's working. If it's not, you can reconnect the trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder. You can then perform an anti-theft relearn procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.

The ignition cylinder lock may not be as vital to the performance of your car as it used to be but there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. It's important to consult an expert, such as an automotive locksmith or car dealership, to ensure the task is done correctly and without causing damage to the steering column's plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It's also crucial to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is correctly coded to ensure that your vehicle recognizes it as an authentic key. This will usually require a professional or a dealer to perform this relearn.