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The Reasons To Work On This Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder
How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's keys won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical part of the ignition system that sends the power to the engine of your vehicle The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite can temporarily fix the problem but replacement is the only solution that lasts.

Removal of the steering column

Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, they utilize keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dashboard panel. This modern system is simpler and more effective than the old lock cylinder method. Some older vehicles still employ the traditional lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be required to replace it to start the car. This is a task that should be left to professionals.

With a screwdriver, take out the screws that hold the trim panels that surround the upper and lower steering column. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column.

There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver that keeps the signal unit and wiper in position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on your car's year you might find 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads, which hold the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.

In order to get at the lock cylinder, you will need to dismantle the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or you can ghetto to do it using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. A locksmith will also be able to use a shear bolt removal kit.

If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can call a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to depress the pin of the lock cylinder.

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

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which is used to house and lock the key to your vehicle. The cylinder is fitted to the key and "reads" anti-theft code to allow or deny starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It can also be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder will have to be replaced in order for your vehicle to start.

Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder are issues with turning the key, or the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, you can try using it in the lock. You may be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this method only works for so long.


Replace the ignition cylinder when you have an additional key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is seated in the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. If you're unsure about the correct alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an automotive expert.

Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft system, you'll have to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key.

Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's usually necessary to deactivate the airbag on the steering column in order for access to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely involve taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's best to leave this job to a mechanic with experience. They'll be able to take off the cover on your steering wheel and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed by your key and that it starts correctly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less important in modern vehicles because of advances in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the problem.

The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to your car's computer system to send signals to activate the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able slide into or rotate the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key can become stuck and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are signs that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's a job that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're able to follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. You can complete the task quickly and correctly by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and place that's convenient to you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical device that fits your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It's affixed to the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The most common indicators that a lock cylinder is about go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These problems usually mean that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder age, it may be damaged through wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear out and break and stop the ignition of your car from working. The ignition could still function in certain situations when you move it around. However, this could be a sign that something is wrong.

G28 Car Keys can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to see if there is voltage. If you do not find any or no voltage, the switch and module are likely to require replacement.

Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's usually best to hire an expert mechanic do the job. The process is complicated by the fact that you may require removing other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. The replacement procedure may also require you to deactivate the airbag system and reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if you have the proper tools and the right instructions.