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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder If your car's key won't turn it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key can slide into, and not the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system. Over time, these “wafer” tumblers will wear out or break. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite can temporarily resolve the issue but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently. Eliminating the Steering Column The majority of modern cars do not utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they utilize keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning a switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. However, there are a few older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. When this part fails, you might require replacing it to be able to start the vehicle. This is a job that should be left to experts. Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper steering column. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column. On the side of the steering column closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that holds the assembly of the wiper and signal. Remove the bolt and set it away. Depending on the year of your car, you may have three or four small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Unscrew these and set them aside. To get to the lock cylinder, you will need to remove the wiper/signal assembly. This will require the use of a specific tool, or you could do it with a piece of metal like a cold chisel. ignition lock repair near me can also use an instrument to remove bolts. If the key cannot be inserted into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key and then moving it to the ACC position to press the lock cylinder pin, or you can call a locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can employ a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder. They can use a torch to cut the pin, then shave the pin to remove it. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on an entirely new ignition. Replacing the Ignition Cylinder The ignition cylindrical cylinder is a mechanical part that houses and secures the key in your vehicle. The cylinder “reads” the anti-theft code and fits your key to turn on or off your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could also break or get bent. If this occurs, the cylinder will require replacement to allow your car to begin. A damaged or worn cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or the ignition switch will not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it in the lock. You may be able to use graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, however, this is only for a short period of time. If you have a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder and follow the instructions above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure it's securely fitted into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. If you're unsure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, refer to your vehicle's repair manual or an expert. After the cylinder has been installed and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearning 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 shut off the airbag inside the steering column in order to access the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. For these reasons, this is a task best left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed using your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern cars due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still use these cylinders. If your car's ignition switch seems to be stuck, or you're having trouble starting the vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder may be to blame. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and fix the issue. The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on 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. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates a little friction that helps keep the key in place, but over time, these small movements can cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers wear down and the key is no longer able to slide into the cylinder, it will be unable to slide into the cylinder or rotate it. A worn-out ignition cylinder is usually the first sign of trouble in most vehicles. However, the key can become stuck and become difficult to insert or remove from the ignition cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as it is possible. It's easy to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you can follow the proper procedure for your car's specific make and model. A full repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the job done efficiently and correctly. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own You can let one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the job for you at a time and location. Testing the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and allows it to turn 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 may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys. The most common indications that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder is damaged and needs replacement. In some cases, you might even notice an alert light on your dashboard, which signals an impending failure. As the cylinder ages it is prone to being damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. The ignition may still work in certain situations if you move it around. However it could be a sign that something is wrong. You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is voltage. If you do not find any, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement. The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's generally recommended to hire an expert mechanic do the job. It can be complicated due to the fact that you might have to remove other components, such as the steering column, in order to access the ignition cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to turn off the airbag system, and then reprogram your key in order to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is typically done at an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself with the proper tools and instructions.