How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car ignition switch repair‘s key isn’t turning, it’s time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, as opposed to the switch which is an electrical component of the ignition system.
Over time over time, these “wafer” tumblers will wear out or break. The use of 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 utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much more efficiently and is less complicated than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this part fails, you may need to replace it in order to start the vehicle. This is a task that should be handled by professionals.
Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area around your steering column.
There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt keeps the signal unit and wiper in position. 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, which hold the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and place them aside.
To access the lock cylinder, you’ll need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or you can ghetto to do it using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. A locksmith can also use the bolt removal kit.
If the key can’t be inserted into the ignition switch, it’s possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to release the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can call a auto locksmith ignition replacement for assistance.
A locksmith can use a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They will be able to change the cylinder’s key to match your current keys and will save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.
Replacing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and locks your car’s key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and “reads” the anti-theft codes to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It could also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may require replacement in order for your vehicle to begin.
The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning the 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, use it in the lock. You may be able to finesse the cylinder with some graphite or WD-40, but this technique only works for a limited time.
If you have a brand new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is seated within the flange of the steering column tube and is correctly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Refer to the car’s manual or an expert to make sure the cylinder is correctly aligned.
After the cylinder is installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Listen for the click to confirm that the ignition switch is 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 suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder since it is often required to deactivate the airbag inside the steering column to access the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and the ignition covers. This is why it’s recommended to leave the job to a mechanic with experience. They’ll be able to remove the cover on your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder in your car ignition switch replacement. They’ll also be able to ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and begins to work correctly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Although ignition lock cylinders have been less significant in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still make use of them. If you have trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It’s a good thing that it’s fairly easy to replace your car’s ignition lock cylinder and repair the issue.
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 an electrical device that connects to your car’s computer to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.
The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers wear down, the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder or rotate it.
The first indication of trouble is usually a worn ignition coil in the majority of cars. However, the key could also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the ignition cylinder. These are all signs that your auto ignition key replacement lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as it is possible.
It’s not a big deal to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your specific model and make. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you’re not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the job for you at a time and place.
Testing the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part that is affixed to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It’s located inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to permit the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with your vehicle’s power or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.
Some of the main signs that your car’s lock-cylinder is about to fail is difficulties in starting it or locations where the key gets caught when you turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder has worn down and requires replacement. In certain instances you may notice a warning light on your dashboard that signals the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This could cause the pins and tumblers to wear out, damage or break and stop the ignition of your car ignition lock from unlocking. In certain instances the ignition may work if you jostle it into different positions, but this could be a sign that something could be wrong.
You can examine the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. You can test with a multimeter whether there’s a voltage connection between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage, the module and switch will likely need to be replaced.
It is best to engage an expert mechanic to repair ignition lock cylinder (raymond-batchelor.technetbloggers.de) the ignition cylinder, since it can cost anywhere between $200 to $300. The process is complicated by the fact that you may have to take other parts to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. The process of replacing it could require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at a dealer, but you can learn how to do it yourself using the appropriate tools and directions.