Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock permits the key to be turned in order for the car to start. It is controlled by a chamber with springs that can be damaged due to environmental factors such as high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch, key or both will not turn, it could be an indication that the lock cylinder needs to be replaced. This is a job best left to an experienced auto locksmith.
Take off the covers of the steering column.
Ignition lock cylinders are the mechanical parts that allow a key to be inserted into the ignition switch and then turned to start the car. They can wear out or malfunction in different ways, such as the key being put in too hard or in the correct place. They can also break down and fail due to corrosion or other causes. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if you notice it's not working. You can do this yourself however, it's a task that requires you to remove the steering column covers and the airbag cover. This process can be risky and difficult and the replacement cylinder may require special tools to install.
The ignition cylinder is located in the middle of the column to which the steering wheel is attached. It has two screws at the bottom and an attachment clip on the side to secure it to the column. It's essential to remove these before you begin working on the cylinder to ensure that it doesn't fall out and get lost.
Once the screws are removed, you can remove the plastic retainers that are located at the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer clips into the top of the cover to hold it in position. You may have to pull the cover off the steering wheel in order to remove the tabs made of plastic that are lower.
You can cut them off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab outward. If the tab has broken completely, it can be replaced with a piece perforated metal strapping which is available at most hardware stores. You'll need U-clips for attaching the new "tab" to the bottom. These can be purchased at any auto parts shop.
After the tabs made of plastic are removed and the airbag cover is pulled back, you will be able to access the ignition cylinder hole. Utilizing the 1/16-inch allen screw, you can open the ignition lock and push down the cylinder retaining pin. You can then pull out the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.
Remove the Ignition Cylinder
While many modern vehicles have been upgraded to push-to start systems, there's plenty of vehicles on the road that need an ignition lock cylinder. This mechanical cylinder is located inside the electrically-powered component referred to as the "ignition switch", which locks 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 call an auto locksmith to get help. A malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder can lead to several problems including a lack in power from the engine and difficulty in inserting or taking out keys. Worn keys can damage wafer tumblers, which let the ignition cylinder to turn. This can cause a blockage and stops the vehicle from beginning.
Depending on the model and the make the cover for your ignition switch can be secured with clips or screws. Utilizing a screwdriver to loosen the screw and then slide off the cover to reveal the cylinder for ignition lock. It's typically a steel cylinder that's about the size of one quarter.
To take the cylinder off, you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Make use of a drill that's slightly larger than the key slot, and drill through the cylinder until it is broken. You can then take the cylinder out and replace it.
You'll need to consult your service manual to find out the exact steps to remove the ignition cylinder. After the cylinder is removed, you can install your new ignition switch.
First, you'll need to replace the steering column covers. You'll also need to fix two screws on top of the lock assembly to hold it in place. Once you've completed this the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn't be that difficult.
Take off the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and cylinder are separate components of the electrical system inside your vehicle. Although they appear like they do, you can fix or replace them on your own. The switch is the electrical portion that sends power to the vehicle, while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into. In general, you can discern that the cylinder for ignition is not working properly due to its inability to turn your key.
If the cylinder fails, the tumbler's pins could wear out, making it hard or impossible to insert or pull your key. If you find that your key is worn and cannot turn, your best bet is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
Based on the model of your car There could be an anchor bolt or screw that secures the switch and removal of this will expose the ignition cylinder. car ignition lock replacement to consult the manual for your vehicle before trying this at home, since it can be hazardous and damage the steering column and plastic covers. Furthermore the switch is connected with the airbags' wiring and tampering with it could cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition coil, you'll need to loosen it with the help of a drill. It is also possible to use pliers but it can be more difficult. When the ignition cylinder becomes loose and you need to replace it with a brand new one from your local auto store.
After installing the new ignition cylinder you'll have to connect all the wires to the electrical connections in the steering column and then test it for proper function. It is usually easier to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition key and start the vehicle. When the ignition is functioning it's time to reconnect the battery and test it again. If it's still not starting then you'll need to reset the immobilizer system by a dealer or service technician. This is a lengthy procedure that should be left to an expert.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends a signal to the vehicle's engine that it's time to get started. The key is then inserted into a lock-cylinder to start this process. However the waxes and pins inside the cylinder may wear away over time. This could make it difficult to turn your car on or even impossible if the cylinder gets stuck.
If your key isn't turning on the ignition, it is likely that it's due to needing to be replaced. Locksmiths can replace your ignition cylinder with a comparable one, so that your key will continue to work with your current ignition switch.
To take out the old lock cylinder, push in on the release pin located at the bottom of the assembly, and slide the cylinder out from its housing. If the cylinder will not be able to slide out, try pressing the release pin or using a small anti-rotation button underneath the face of cylinder. You can also push in on the cylinder while adjusting the key to the ACC position or 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 is then you can connect any trim pieces that you removed to access the cylinder and apply an anti-theft relearning procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.
The lock on the ignition cylinder might not be as important to the functionality of your car as it once was however there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. It's important to consult a professional, like an automotive locksmith or car dealership, to ensure that the task is done in a safe manner without causing damage to the steering column's or other components in your vehicle. It's important to make sure that the new ignition is correctly coded so that your car recognizes it as a genuine key. In most cases this, it will require a dealer or other professional to carry out the relearn.