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The Most Common Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder Mistake Every Newbie Makes
How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key won't turn and it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. 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, "wafers" can break or wear out. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite may temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is the only permanent solution.

Removal of the Steering Column

Modern cars do not have a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of a key to start the car by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it to start the car. This isn't a task for the novice and should be left to a professional.

With a screwdriver, take out the screws that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.

You will see an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel that is closest to the driver that keeps the signal unit and wiper in the correct position. Remove the bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car you might see three or four small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or you can ghetto to do it using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be equipped with the shear bolt removal kit.

If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's a sign that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to press the pin on the lock cylinder.

A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They can re-key the ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft code and then fits your key to turn on or off your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder will wear out. It could also break or become bent. In this situation you'll need replace the cylinder in order to get your car started.

A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or causing the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning light to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra, put it inside the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, however this method only works for a certain amount of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder if have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely seated into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the 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.

After the cylinder is installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which signifies that the ignition switch has been fully seated inside the cylinder. If read page has an anti-theft system, you'll have to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts recommend having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, as it is typically necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column to gain access to the cylinder. The replacement will also likely require removing the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. For these reasons, this is a task best left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able to remove the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still make use of them. If your car's ignition switch or key seems to be stuck or you're having difficulty starting your car it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be the cause. It's simple to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.

The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that slides into your car's ignition switch and sends power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they are actually two separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key.


The pins on cylinders for ignition locks move up and down, which allows your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key will not be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key could be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder must be replaced as soon as is possible.

Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is something that should be handled by a trained DIYer only when you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. You can complete the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair guide for your vehicle. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder yourself then let one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to authorize key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock is susceptible to wear and eventually fail, leading to problems with powering your vehicle or making it hard to insert and remove the key.

Some of the main signs that your car's lock-cylinder is in danger of failing is difficulty starting it or finding areas where the key is caught when you turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder is worn down and requires replacement. In certain instances you may notice an alert light on your dashboard, which signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder gets older, it can become damaged by corrosion or simply wear and tear. This could cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, cause damage or even break, which could make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. The ignition might still work in some instances by moving it around. However, this could be a sign that something is not right.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to see if it's worn out or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't see any or no voltage, then the switch and module probably need to be replaced.

It is best to engage a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it can cost anywhere between $200 and $300. It's not an easy task due to the fact that you may need to remove other components such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. The replacement process may require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogramme your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is usually handled by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if you have the right tools and instructions.