Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock permits the key to be turned and the car to begin. It operates through a chamber and springs that could be damaged by environmental conditions such as high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch keys or the switch itself will not turn, it could mean that the lock's cylinder needs to be replaced. It is best to leave the job to an expert locksmith for your automobile.
Remove the covers for the steering column.
Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical parts that allow a key to be inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to turn off an automobile. They can fail or wear out in various ways, including keys that are put in too hard or in the proper position. They may also break down and fail due to corrosion or any other reason. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it isn't functioning. You can do it yourself however it's a job which requires you to remove the steering column covers and the airbag cover. This is a risky process and may be challenging. It may also require special tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is located in the middle of the column, where the steering wheel attaches. It has two screws at the bottom and a clip on the side that holds it in place. It is important to remove these screws before you begin working on the cylinder to ensure that it doesn't fall out and disappear.
Once you have the screws removed, you can pull the plastic retainers out of the bottom of the cover. There's a metal retainer that clips to the top of the cover to hold it in place. You may need to pry the cover off of the steering wheel to remove the tabs made of plastic that are lower.
You can break them off by removing the screw that holds them and then bending the tab outward. If the tab is broken completely it can be repaired with a piece of perforated metal strapping that's found at most hardware stores. You'll also require U-clips to secure the new bottom "tab," and these can be sourced from any automotive parts shop.
After removing the tabs made of plastic and removing the airbag cover, it is now possible to access the ignition cylinder. You can unlock the ignition lock with the Allen wrench of 1/16-inch and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. You can then pull out the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with a special cylinder to protect against theft.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Although many newer vehicles have switched to push-to-start systems, there are still many cars in the market that require an ignition lock cylinder. This cylindrical, mechanical part is contained in the electrically powered component known as the "ignition switch" that is used to lock the ignition and "reads' anti-theft codes within the car key before allowing it start.
If your vehicle is showing signs of a failing ignition lock cylinder, it might be time to contact an auto locksmith for help. A damaged ignition lock cylinder can lead to several problems including an absence of power from the engine, and difficulty inserting or removing keys. Keys that are damaged by wear can affect the wafer tumblers, which allow the ignition cylinder to turn and create a blockage that stops your vehicle from starting.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the ignition cover may be secured by either a screw or clip. Using a screwdriver, loosen the screw and then slide off the cover, revealing the ignition lock cylinder. This is typically a metal cylinder about the size of one quarter.
To take the cylinder off, you'll need to remove the pin that holds it in place. Make use of a drill bit that is slightly larger than the slot that holds the key and drill straight into it until the cylinder breaks free. You'll then be able pull the cylinder out and replace it with a replacement.
The exact process to remove the ignition cylinder varies by manufacturer, so you'll need to review the service manual to determine what steps are required. After the cylinder is removed, you can install your new ignition switch.
You'll first need to replace the covers on the steering column. Two screws are needed to secure the lock assembly in place. Once you've completed this, installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't be that difficult.
Remove the Ignition Switch
The ignition cylinder lock and switch are two distinct components of your car's electrical system. Although they might appear similar, the two can be replaced or repaired independently of one other. The switch is the electronic component that provides power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into. Generally, you can detect that the ignition cylinder is failing due to its inability to turn the key.
If the cylinder fails, the pins inside the tumbler may wear out which makes it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you notice that your key is worn out and won't turn anymore, it's best to get the wafers replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
The ignition cylinder is uncovered by taking off the bolt or screw depending on the make of your vehicle. It is essential to check the service manual of your vehicle prior to trying this at home, because it could be risky and cause damage to the steering column as well as the plastic covers. Additionally, the switch is bundled with wiring for airbags and any interference with this could cause serious injuries.
To take the ignition cylinder out it is necessary to use drills to loosen it. You can also use pliers separate the cylinder from the assembly however this is usually more difficult than using a screwdriver. Once the ignition cylinder has been removed, you can purchase a new one from your local auto shop.
You'll need all the wires that are connected to the electrical connection on the steering column in order to test its operation. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery first, then take the key from the ignition and then start the engine. When the ignition is functioning then you can connect the battery and try it again. If it's still not starting, you'll need to have the immobilizer system reset by a dealership or service technician. This is a complicated procedure that should be handled by professionals.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends out an indication to the engine that it's time for it to start. The key inserts into a lock cylinder to start the process, but the wafers and pins inside the cylinder could wear out over time. It can be difficult or impossible to start your car when the cylinder gets stuck.
If the key in your car won't turn, it's likely the cylinder for ignition is worn out and requires replacement. car ignition switch can replace the cylinder using a similar one, so your new key will work with the original ignition switch and will still be able to trigger the engine startup signal.
To take out the old lock cylinder to remove it, push it into the release pin located at the bottom of the assembly and lift the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder is unable to move out, try pressing the release pin or using a small anti rotation button on the front of the cylinder. You can also push down on the cylinder while turning the key to the ACC position or use an accessory to push it out.
Install the new cylinder and test it by turning on the vehicle. If it's not then you can connect any trim pieces that you removed to access the cylinder. Then, you can follow an anti-theft procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.
Although the lock for the ignition cylinder isn't as crucial to the functionality of your car as it used to be however, there are many instances where you'll require replacing it. It is essential to talk to a professional, like an automotive locksmith or a car dealership to ensure the task is done correctly and without causing damage to the steering column plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It is also essential to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is correctly encoded so that your vehicle recognizes it as an authentic key. This typically requires an expert or a dealer to do this relearning.