What Is It That Makes Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder So Famous?
How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder
If your car's key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical portion of the ignition system, which sends power to your vehicle's engine the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.
Over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily resolve the issue but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.
Eliminating the Steering Column
The majority of modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they have a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this part fails, you may require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to experts.
Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels covering the upper and lower steering column. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.
You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver. It keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Remove the bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your vehicle you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside.
To access the lock cylinder you will have to take off the wiper/signal unit. You can use a special tool to accomplish this, or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using the shear bolt removal kit.
If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. You can either contact an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to press the lock cylinder's pin.
A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it to remove it from the cylinder. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match the keys you have and will help you save the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is affixed to the key and "reads" the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It could also be bent or damaged. In this situation you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car running.
A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position or RUN, or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have a spare, consider using it inside the lock. You could try using graphite or WD-40 to tweak the cylinder but this is only effective for a short period of period of time.
Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an alternative key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you're not sure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an automotive expert.
Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.
Some experts suggest replacing the ignition cylinder, as it is often required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require the removal of the steering wheel and ignition covers. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to a professional mechanic. They'll be able to remove the steering wheel cover and install a new ignition locking cylinder inside your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and is working properly when you insert it.
Installing the Ignition Cylinder
Even though cylinders for ignition locks have become less important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still use these cylinders. If you're having trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace the ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem.
The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system that connects to the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electrical device that connects with the computer in your car to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers will wear out. When the tumblers are worn down the key will be unable to slide into the cylinder, or turn it.
The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are signs that you should replace the ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.
It's easy to replace your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. A full repair manual for your vehicle will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient for you.
Test the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical device that is fitted to your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It is inserted into the ignition switch which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft number to allow key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is prone to wear and may eventually fail, causing problems with powering your vehicle or making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about to be damaged is having trouble getting your car started or locating places where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. You may even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.
As the cylinder ages it is likely to be damaged through wear and tear. van ignition repair can cause the pins and tumblers to break down, damage or break and stop your car's ignition from unlocking. In certain instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it around, but this could be a indicator that something is wrong.
You can check the cylinder's ignition to determine whether it's worn out, or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you own a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you don't find any voltage, the module and switch will likely need to be replaced.
It is recommended to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder as it could cost between $200 to $300. It's not easy because you may have remove other components such as the steering column, to access the ignition cylinder. The process of replacing it could require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. It is usually done by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if you have the proper tools and instructions.