The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair

The ignition cylinder lock permits the key to be turned and the car to start. It operates via a chamber and springs that may be damaged by environmental elements like low or high temperatures.

If your ignition switch, key or both will not turn, it could mean that the lock's cylinder needs to be replaced. This is a task best left to an experienced auto locksmith.

Remove the covers for the steering column.

Ignition lock-cylinders, or ignition lock-cylinders, are mechanical devices that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to turn off the vehicle. They are prone to fail and wear out due to a number of reasons, such as when the key is inserted too strongly or in the wrong position. They can also break down and fail due to corrosion or other reasons. If your ignition cylinder isn't turning it's time to replace it. This is a straightforward task but you'll have to take off the steering column cover and the airbag cover. This is a risky process and may be challenging. It could also require special tools for the replacement cylinder.

The ignition cylinder is situated in the middle of the column where the steering wheel is attached. It has two screws at the bottom and a clip on the side to hold it to the column. Remove these screws before you start working on the cylinder to stop it from falling off and becoming lost.

Once the screws are removed, you can remove the plastic retainers that are located at the bottom of the cover. There's also a retainer made of metal that clips onto the top of the cover to hold it in position. You may have to pry off the cover to remove the tabs on the bottom.

These can be broken off by taking out one of the retaining screws and then bending the tab a bit. If the tab is damaged completely it can be replaced with a perforated piece of metal strapping that can be found in most hardware shops. You'll also need some U-clips to attach the new bottom "tab," and these can be sourced from any auto parts store.

After removing the plastic tabs and removing the airbag cover, it is now possible to access the ignition cylinder. Utilizing the 1/16-inch allen screw, you can open the ignition lock and push it onto the cylinder retaining pin. You can then remove the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.

Remove the Ignition Cylinder

Despite the fact that a lot of vehicles now have push-to-start technology, there are certain cars that require an ignition lock. This mechanical cylinder is located inside the electrically-powered part referred to as the "ignition switch", which locks the ignition, and "reads the anti-theft codes inside the car key before allowing it start.

It may be time to call an auto locksmith if your car is showing signs of a broken lock cylinder. A faulty cylinder can cause several problems, including a lack of power from the engine and issues with inserting and taking out the key. Keys that are damaged by wear can affect the wafer tumblers that allow for the ignition cylinder to turn into a jam that stops your vehicle from beginning.

Based on the model and make the cover of your ignition switch may be held on by either a clip or screw. With a screwdriver, loosen the screw, then remove the cover, revealing the cylinder that locks the ignition. It's usually a metal cylinder roughly the size of the size of a quarter.

To remove the cylinder, you'll need to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the slot for the key, and drill straight into it until the cylinder snaps free. Then, you can remove the cylinder and replace it.

The procedure to remove the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so it is necessary to read your service manual to determine the steps to follow. Once you have the cylinder removed, you can install your new ignition switch.

It is first necessary to replace the covers for the steering column. Two screws will also be needed to secure the lock assembly in place. After that, installing your new ignition cylinder should be fairly simple.

Take off the Ignition Switch

The ignition switch and the cylinder lock are two distinct components of the electrical system in your car. Although they may look similar, you can repair or replace them on your own. The switch is the electronic component that supplies power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into. You can tell when the ignition cylinder has failed by the inability to turn your key.

When the cylinder fails the pins inside the tumbler may wear out, making it hard or impossible to pull or insert your key. If you notice your key is deteriorating and isn't turning anymore, it's best to have the wafers inside it replaced or smoothed out by a professional locksmith.



The ignition cylinder is uncovered by taking off the bolt or screw, depending on the make of the vehicle you're using. It is important to read the service manual of your vehicle prior to trying this at home, because it could be risky and cause damage to the steering column and plastic covers. The switch is also linked with the airbag wiring. Tampering with it can cause serious injury.

To remove  car ignition switch , you will need to loosen it using the aid of a drill. You can also use pliers to disengage the cylinder from the assembly however, this is typically more difficult than using a screwdriver. After the ignition cylinder has been removed, you can buy a new one at your local auto shop.

You'll require all the wires connected to the electrical connection on the steering column to test its proper operation. It's best to disconnect the battery first, then disconnect the key from the ignition and start the engine. When the ignition is functioning then you can connect the battery and try it again. If the car still doesn't turn on, you will require that the immobilizer system reset. This can be done by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complicated procedure that should be handled by professionals.

Install the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition switch in your car transmits an indication to the engine that it's time to start up. The key is inserted into a lock-cylinder to start this process. However the pins and waxes in the cylinder can wear out over time. It could be difficult or impossible to start your vehicle in the event that the cylinder is stuck.

If the key in your car won't turn, it's likely the cylinder that controls ignition has worn out and requires replacement. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder with a new one, so your new key will function with your old ignition switch, and will be capable of triggering the engine startup signal.

To remove the old lock cylinder to remove it, push it into the release pin on the base of the assembly and remove the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder isn't sliding out, try pushing in on the release pin once more or using a screwdriver, you can press the small anti-rotation button under the cylinder's face. You can also push in on the cylinder while adjusting the key to the ACC position, or attach an accessory to force it out.

Once you've removed your old cylinder, replace it with the new one and switch on the vehicle to check whether it's working. If it's working, you can reconnect any trim pieces were removed to gain access to the cylinder. You can then 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 functioning of your car as it once was however, there are many scenarios where you'll require replacing it. Contact a professional like an locksmith or dealer in the automotive industry to ensure the task is completed without damaging the steering column or other parts of your vehicle. It's also important to ensure that the new ignition cylinder has been correctly encoded so that your vehicle can recognize it as an authentic key. This typically requires a professional or a dealer to do this relearn.