Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock permits the key to be turned, allowing the car to start. It is controlled by a chamber that has springs which can be damaged by environmental factors such as high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch or key won't turn, it could be a sign that the cylinder for your lock is damaged and requires to be replaced. This is a job best left to an auto locksmith professional.
Take off the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical parts that allow a key into the ignition switch to be turned to begin a vehicle. They can fail or wear out in various ways, including the key being inserted too hard or not in the correct position. They can also fail due to corrosion, and other reasons. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it's not working. You can do it yourself, but it's a job which requires you to remove the covers for the steering column and the airbag cover. The process is dangerous and can be difficult. It could also require specialized tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder can be found in the middle column, where the steering wheel is positioned. It has two screws at the bottom and an attachment clip on the side to secure it to the column. Remove these screws prior to working on the cylinder to prevent it from falling off and getting lost.
After the screws have been removed, you can take off the plastic retainers that are located at the bottom of the cover. There's also a metal retainer that clips into the top of the cover to hold it in position. You may need to pry off the cover to take out the lower tabs.
The tabs can be ripped off by taking off one of the retaining screws and bending the tab a bit. If the tab is damaged completely it can be repaired with a piece perforated metal strapping which is available in most hardware stores. You'll need U-clips for attaching the new "tab" at the bottom. They can be bought at any automotive parts store.
After removing the tabs made of plastic and removing the airbag cover, you can access the ignition cylinder. With the 1/16-inch allen wrench you can unlock the ignition lock and push down the retaining pin for the cylinder. You can then pull out the cylinder. It is possible to replace it with a specially designed cylinder for an anti-theft system.
Remove the Ignition Cylinder
Despite the fact that a lot of vehicles are now equipped with push-to-start, there are still some vehicles on the market that require an ignition lock. This cylinder, which is mechanical, is contained in the electrically powered component known as the "ignition switch" that locks the ignition, and "reads' anti-theft codes within the car key before allowing it to start.
If your vehicle is showing signs of a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder, it could be time to contact an auto locksmith to get help. A faulty ignition lock cylinder can cause a variety of issues, including the 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, leading to a jam that prevents your vehicle from getting started.
Depending on the model and the make the cover for your ignition switch could be secured by clips or screws. With a screwdriver, loosen the screw and slide off the cover, revealing the cylinder that locks the ignition. This is typically a metal cylinder, which is about the size of a quarter.
To remove the cylinder, you'll have to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Use a drill bit that's slightly larger than the key slot and drill through the cylindrical until it breaks. Then, you can take the cylinder out and replace it.
You'll need to refer to your service manual to find out the exact steps to take to remove the ignition cylinder. After the cylinder is removed, you can then install the new ignition switch.
Before you can do that, you'll need to reinstall the covers on the steering column. Two screws will also be needed to secure the lock assembly in place. Once you've done this the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.
Take off the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and the cylinder lock are two distinct parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they might appear identical, they can be repaired or replaced independently of one other. The switch is the part that sends power to the vehicle, while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into. You can tell if the ignition cylinder is damaged by the inability to turn your key.
If the cylinder fails, the pins in the tumbler could wear out, making it difficult or impossible to insert or pull your key. If you find that your key has become worn and cannot turn the way you want it to, the best option is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by an experienced locksmith.
Depending on your vehicle's make it could have an anchor bolt or screw that holds the switch in place, and removing this will expose the ignition cylinder. It is important to read your vehicle's service manual before attempting this at home, because it could be risky and cause damage to the steering column and plastic covers. Additionally the switch is linked with wiring for airbags and tampering with it could cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition cylinder you'll need a drill to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers however, it is more difficult. 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 connector on the steering column to test its operation. It's best to disconnect the battery first, then remove the ignition key and start the engine. It is possible to reconnect the battery after the ignition has worked. If it still won't start it is necessary to reset the immobilizer system by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be left to a professional.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends a signal telling the engine it's time to start. The key inserts into a lock cylinder to initiate this process, however the wafers and pins inside the cylinder may wear out over time. It can be difficult or impossible to start your vehicle when the cylinder gets stuck.
If the key in your car won't turn, it's likely that the cylinder that controls ignition has worn down and needs replacing. Locksmiths can replace your ignition cylinder with a comparable one, so that your key can continue to function with your existing ignition switch.
To remove the old lock cylinder simply push it in to the release pin located at the base of the assembly and slide the cylinder out from its housing. If the cylinder doesn't slide out, try pushing in on the release pin again or using a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation button under the cylinder's face. You can also try pushing in on the cylinder using your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can get it out.
Once you've removed the old cylinder, put in the new one and then turn on the vehicle to make sure whether it's functioning. If so, you can connect the trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder. Then, you can go through an re-learning process to connect the new keys.
The lock for the ignition cylinder may not be as crucial to the functioning of your car as it once was however there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. car ignition switch to consult a professional, like an automotive locksmith or car dealer to ensure the task is done in a safe manner without causing harm to the steering column's plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It's also crucial to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is correctly encoded so that your vehicle can recognize it as an authentic key. This usually requires a professional or a dealer to carry out this relearning.