The Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair Success Story You'll Never Imagine

Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned and the car to start. It is controlled by a chamber that has springs that may be damaged by environmental factors such as low or high temperatures.

If your ignition switch keys, or even the key isn't turning, it could mean that the lock cylinder needs to be replaced. This is a task best left to an auto locksmith professional.

Remove the steering column covers

Ignition lock cylinders are mechanical parts that allow a key to be placed into the ignition switch and turned to turn on the car. They can wear out or malfunction in a variety of ways, like keys that are inserted too hard or not in the correct place. They can also fail due to corrosion or other causes. If your ignition cylinder doesn't seem to be turning it's time to replace it. You can do it yourself however, it's a task that requires you to remove the steering column covers and the airbag cover. This is a risky process and could be difficult. It could also require special tools to the replacement cylinder.

The ignition cylinder can be located in the middle column where the steering wheel is attached. It has two screws at the bottom and an attachment clip on the side to hold it to the column. Take these screws off prior to working on the cylinder to stop it from falling off and getting lost.

Once the screws are removed, you can remove the plastic retainers from the lower part of the cover. A metal retainer is inserted into the top cover to hold it in the right place. You may need to pry off the cover to take out the lower tabs.

They can be removed by taking out one of the retaining screws, and then bending the tab a bit. If the tab is damaged completely it can be repaired by a piece of perforated metal strapping, which can be found in most hardware stores. You'll also require U-clips to secure the new bottom "tab," and these can be sourced from any auto parts store.

After removing the tabs of plastic and removing the airbag cover, you can reach the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock by using the 1/16-inch Allen wrench and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. Then, you'll be able to pull the cylinder away. You may have to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.

Take off the Ignition Cylinder

Although a majority of automobiles are now equipped with push-to-start, there are still certain cars that require an ignition lock. This cylindrical, mechanical component is located inside the electrically powered part called the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" the anti-theft code inside the car key so that it can start.

It's time to contact an auto locksmith if your vehicle shows signs of a failing lock cylinder. A faulty cylinder can cause various issues, including a lack of power to the engine and issues with inserting and removing the key. Keys that are worn out can damage wafer tumblers, which allow the cylinder to turn. This can cause a jam and prevents the vehicle from beginning.

Depending on your model and the make, the ignition switch cover could be secured by either a clip or screw. With a screwdriver, loosen the screw, then lift the cover to reveal the cylinder that locks the ignition. It's usually a metal cylinder that's about the size of a quarter.

To take the cylinder off, you'll need to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Make use of a drill bit that is slightly larger than the slot that holds the key and then drill through it until the cylinder breaks free. Then, you'll be able to pull the cylinder out and replace it with a new.

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

Before you can do that you'll need to replace the steering column covers. Two screws will also be needed to secure the lock assembly in place. Once you've done this, installing your new ignition cylinder should be fairly straightforward.

Remove the Ignition Switch

The ignition switch and cylinder lock are two distinct components of your car's electrical system. Although they appear like they do, you can fix or replace them separately. The switch is electric and supplies energy to your vehicle. The cylinder is a mechanical tumbler which your key can slide into. Generally, you can tell the ignition cylinder is not working because it is unable to turn the key.

When the cylinder fails the pins in the tumbler could wear out which makes it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you notice that your key is worn and cannot turn, your best bet is to have the wafers inside it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.

Based on the make of your vehicle it could have a screw or bolt that is used to secure the switch, and removing this will expose the cylinder of ignition. Consult your vehicle's manual before you attempt this at home. It is a risk and cause damage to the steering column or plastic covers. The switch is also bundled with the wiring for airbags. Making a mistake with it could cause serious injury.

To remove the ignition cylinder, you'll need to use a drill to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers, however, it is more difficult. Once the ignition cylinder is loose and you need to replace it with a brand new one from your local auto store.

You'll need all the wires connected to the electrical connection on the steering column to verify its operation. It's generally simpler to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition key and start the car Ignition system Repair. When the ignition is functioning, you can reconnect the battery and test it again. If it still won't start then you'll need to have the immobilizer system reset by a dealer or service technician. This can be a complex procedure, so it's best done by a certified professional.

Reinstall the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch in your car sends out an indication to the engine that it's time to start. The key is then inserted into a lock-cylinder in order to start this process. However the pins and waxes in the cylinder can get worn out over time. It can be difficult or impossible to start your car when the cylinder gets stuck.

If your car ignition key replacement's ignition key doesn't turn, it's likely that the cylinder that controls ignition has worn down and needs replacing. A skilled locksmith can replace the cylinder using a similar one, meaning that your new key will work with the old ignition switch, and will be capable of triggering the engine's start-up signal.

To take off the lock to remove the lock, press down on the release pin that is located at the bottom of the assembly and move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder isn't sliding out, try pressing on the release pin once more or using a screwdriver to depress an anti-rotation small button underneath the cylinder's surface. You can also push in on the cylinder while turning the key to the ACC position or use an accessory to force it out.

Once you've removed the old cylinder, install your new one and turn on the vehicle to check whether it's working. If it is then you can connect any trim pieces that you removed to access the cylinder. You can then apply an anti-theft relearning procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.

Although the lock for the ignition cylinder isn't as essential to the functionality of your car as it used to be but there are still instances where you'll require replacing it. Talk to a professional such as an locksmith or dealer in the automotive industry to ensure that the task is done without causing damage to the steering column or other parts of your vehicle. It is essential to ensure that the new ignition is properly coded so that your car recognizes it as a genuine key. This usually requires an expert or a dealer to carry out this relearning.