Guide To Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair: The Intermediate Guide To Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock permits the key to be turned and the car to begin. It works through springs and chambers which can be damaged by environmental elements like low or high temperatures.

If your ignition switch, key or both will not turn, it could mean that the lock's cylinder has 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 into the ignition switch to be turned to begin the vehicle. They may wear out or fail in various ways, including the key being inserted too hard or not in the correct position. They may also break down and fail due to corrosion or other causes. If your ignition cylinder isn't working, it's probably time to replace it. This is a straightforward task but you'll have to take off the steering column cover and airbag cover. The process is dangerous and could be difficult. It may also require special tools to the replacement cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is found in the middle column where the steering wheel is positioned. The clip and two screws located at the bottom hold the cylinder in place. It is important to remove these screws before you begin working on the cylinder, so that it doesn't break and get lost.

Once the screws are removed, you can remove the plastic retainers on the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer is inserted into the top cover to keep it in position. You may need to pry the cover from the steering wheel to take off the tabs made of plastic that are lower.

These can be broken off by removing one of the retaining screws and bending the tab outward a bit. If the tab is broken off completely it can be replaced with a piece perforated metal strapping that can be found in most hardware shops. You'll also require U-clips to attach the new bottom "tab," and these can be bought from any automotive parts store.

After the tabs made of plastic are removed and the airbag cover is pulled back, you can access the ignition cylinder hole. Utilizing the 1/16-inch allen screw, you can open the ignition lock and push down the pin that holds the cylinder. Then, you'll be able to pull the cylinder away. It may be necessary to replace it with a special cylinder for an anti-theft system.

Take off the Ignition Cylinder

While many of the latest vehicles have switched to push-to-start systems, there are still a good number of cars on the road that need an ignition lock cylinder. This cylindrical, mechanical part is housed inside the electrically powered component known as the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" the anti-theft code inside the fix car ignition key to allow it to turn on.

If your vehicle is showing signs of a failing ignition lock cylinder, it may be time to contact an auto locksmith for assistance. A damaged ignition lock cylinder could lead to several problems including the absence of power to the engine, and difficulties in inserting or removing the keys. Keys that are worn out can damage the wafer tumblers that allow the ignition cylinder to rotate, leading to a jam that prevents your vehicle from getting started.

Depending on the make and model the cover of your ignition switch may be held on by a screw or clip. Utilizing a screwdriver to loosen the screw and then slide off the cover, revealing the ignition lock cylinder. It's typically a steel cylinder, which is approximately the size of a quarter.

To remove the cylinder, you must drill the pin that holds it. Use a drill bit that's slightly larger than the key slot and drill directly into the cylinder until it breaks free. Then, you can take the cylinder out and replace it.

You'll need to check your service manual to find out the specific steps to remove the ignition cylinder. Once you have the cylinder removed, you can install your new van ignition repair switch.

You'll first need to replace the covers for the steering column. It is also necessary to tighten two screws on top of the lock assembly that keep it in place. Once you've completed this installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.

Take off the Ignition Switch

The ignition cylinder lock and switch are two different parts of the electrical system in your car ignition switch replacement. Although they appear similar, you can repair or replace them in a separate. The switch is the electronic component that sends power to the vehicle, while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key slides into. Generally, you will be able to discern that the cylinder for ignition is not working properly due to its inability to turn the key.

If the cylinder fails, the tumbler's pins could wear out, making it difficult or impossible to pull or insert your key. If you find that your key has become damaged and isn't turning, your best bet is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.

Based on the make of your vehicle it could have an anchor bolt or screw that holds the switch in place and removal of this will expose the cylinder that controls the ignition. Consult your vehicle's manual before you attempt this at home. It is a risk and cause damage to the steering column or the plastic covers. The switch is also connected with the wiring for airbags. Making a mistake with it could cause serious injuries.

To remove the ignition coil, you will need to loosen it with the aid of a drill. It is also possible to use pliers, however, it is more difficult. After the ignition cylinder is removed, you can buy a new one at your local auto shop.

After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll have to connect all of the wires to the electrical connection in the steering column, and then test it for proper function. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery, and then remove the ignition key and start the vehicle. When the ignition is functioning then you can connect the battery and test it again. If it's still not starting it is necessary to have the immobilizer system reset by a dealer or service technician. This can be a complicated procedure, and is better left to a certified professional.

Reinstall the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch on your car sends out an alert to the engine it's time for it to start. The key is inserted into the lock cylinder to start the process, but the wafers and pins inside the cylinder may wear out over time. This could make it difficult to turn your car on or even impossible if your cylinder gets stuck.

If the key in your car won't turn, it's a sign that the cylinder for ignition is damaged and requires replacement. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder using a similar one, meaning that your new key will function with your old ignition switch and will still be capable of triggering the engine's start-up signal.

To take out the old lock cylinder, push in on the release pin at the bottom of the assembly and lift the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder will not move out, try pressing in the release pin, or use a small anti-rotation button underneath the face of cylinder. You can also push in on the cylinder while turning the key to the ACC position, or attach an accessory to push it out.

Once you've removed your old cylinder, install your new one and turn on the vehicle to check that it's working. If it's working, reconnect the trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder. Then, you can go through an re-learning process to connect the new keys.

The ignition cylinder lock may not be as vital to the performance of your car as it was in the past but there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. It is important to speak with an expert, such as an automotive locksmith or a fix car ignition dealer, to ensure that the job is completed correctly without harm to the steering column plastic covers or other components in your vehicle. It is crucial to ensure that the new ignition is coded correctly so that your car recognizes it as a genuine key. This typically requires an expert or a dealer to perform this relearn.