"The Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair Awards: The Best, Worst, And The Most Unlikely Things We've Seen
Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned, allowing the car to start. It is controlled by a chamber with springs that may be damaged due to environmental conditions like low or high temperatures.
If your ignition switch or key doesn't turn, it could be a sign that the cylinder of your lock is damaged and must be replaced. It is best to leave the job to an expert locksmith for your automobile.
Take off the covers of the steering column.
Ignition lock cylinders are the mechanical components that allow keys to be put into the ignition switch and then turned to turn on the car. They can wear out and malfunction for various reasons, for instance when the key is inserted too forcefully or placed in the wrong place. They may also fail due to corrosion, and other causes. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it isn't working. You can do this yourself however, it's a task which requires you to remove the covers on the steering column and the airbag cover. This process can be risky and complicated, and the replacement cylinder might require special tools to be installed.
The ignition cylinder is found in the middle column, where the steering wheel is positioned. The clip and two screws located at the bottom of the cylinder hold it in place. It is important to remove them before you begin working on the cylinder, so that it doesn't break and become lost.
After the screws have been removed, you can take off the plastic retainers that are located at the bottom of the cover. There's also a retainer made of metal that clips into the top of the cover to keep it in the right position. You may need to pry off the cover to remove the lower tabs.
They can be removed by taking off one of the retaining screws and bending the tab a bit. If the tab is damaged completely, you can replace it with a perforated piece of metal strapping that can be found in most hardware stores. You'll also need some U-clips for the new bottom "tab," and these can be sourced from any automotive parts shop.
After removing the tabs of plastic and pulling back the airbag cover, you will be able to access the ignition cylinder. Utilizing the 1/16-inch allen screw you can unlock the ignition lock and push down the cylinder retaining pin. Then, you can remove the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with a specially designed cylinder to protect against theft.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Despite the fact that many automobiles are now equipped with push-to-start technology, there are certain cars that require an ignition lock. This mechanical cylinder is located inside the electrically-powered component known as the "ignition switch" that locks the ignition and "reads the anti-theft codes inside the car key before allowing it to turn on.
auto ignition key replacement may be time to call an auto locksmith if your car shows signs of a failing lock cylinder. A faulty ignition lock cylinder can cause numerous issues, such as a lack in power from the engine and difficulty in inserting or taking out keys. Keys that are worn out can damage the wafer tumblers that allow for the ignition cylinder to rotate and create a blockage which prevents your car from beginning.
Based on the model and make, the ignition switch cover could be secured by clips or screws. By using a screwdriver, loosen up the screw, then remove the cover to reveal the ignition lock cylinder. It's typically a steel cylinder roughly the size of a quarter.
To remove the cylinder you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Use a drill bit that's slightly larger than the key slot and drill through the cylinder until it breaks free. You can then remove the cylinder and then replace it.
You'll need to check your service manual to find out the specific steps to remove the ignition cylinder. After you have the cylinder removed, you can put in your new ignition switch.
First, you'll need to replace the covers on the steering column. It is also necessary to tighten two screws on the top of the lock assembly that hold it in place. Once you've done this installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.
Remove the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and cylinder lock are two different parts of your car's electrical system. Although they might appear identical, you can repair or replace them separately. The switch is electrical and supplies energy to your vehicle. The cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into. You can tell if your ignition cylinder is damaged by its inability to turn the key.
If the cylinder fails, the pins in the tumbler could wear out, making it hard or impossible to pull or insert your key. If you find that your key has become worn and won't turn the way you want it to, the best option is to have the wafers inside it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
The ignition cylinder is uncovered by taking off the bolt or screw depending on the model of your vehicle. It's important to consult your vehicle's service manual before making the attempt at home as it can be dangerous and damage the steering column as well as plastic covers. The switch is also bundled with the airbag wiring. Tampering with it can cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition coil, you'll have to remove it using a drill. You can also use pliers disengage it from the assembly however this is usually more difficult than using a screwdriver. Once the ignition cylinder has been removed, you can buy a new one from your local auto shop.
After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll have to connect all the wires to the electrical connections in the steering column, and then test it to ensure that it functions properly. It's usually easiest to disconnect the battery first, then take the ignition key and then start the engine. When the ignition is functioning, you can reconnect the battery and test it again. If it's still not starting then you'll need to have the immobilizer system reset by a dealership or service technician. This can be a complicated procedure and should be left to a professional with certification.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends a signal to the vehicle's engine that it's time for it to start. The key is then inserted into a lock-cylinder to initiate this process. However the waxes and pins inside the cylinder may wear out over time. This can make it difficult to turn on your car or even impossible if the cylinder gets stuck.
If your key won't turn on the ignition, it's likely that it's time to get replaced. A locksmith can replace your ignition cylinder with a replacement so that your key can continue to function with your existing ignition switch.
To remove the lock, press down on the release pin at the base of your assembly. Then move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder won't slide out, try pushing in on the release pin a second time or using a screwdriver, you can press an anti-rotation small button underneath the cylinder's surface. You may also try pushing in on the cylinder with your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can push it out.
Install the new cylinder and test it by turning off the vehicle. If it's working then you can connect any trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder and follow an anti-theft procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.
The lock on the ignition cylinder might not be as crucial to the functionality of your vehicle as it was in the past but there are situations where it is necessary to replace it. Consult a professional such as an automotive dealer or locksmith to ensure the task is done without damaging the steering column or other parts of your vehicle. It is essential to ensure that the new ignition is correctly coded to ensure that your car recognizes it as authentic keys. This will usually require a professional or a dealer to carry out this relearn.