10 Basics About Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair You Didn't Learn In School

Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair The ignition lock in the cylinder is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the vehicle. It works through springs and chambers that may be damaged by environmental factors such as high or low temperatures. If your ignition switch or key isn't able to turn, it could be a sign that the cylinder for your lock is damaged and must be replaced. This is a job best left to an auto locksmith professional. Remove ignition lock repair services for the steering column. Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical components that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to start an automobile. They are prone to fail and wear out due to a number of reasons, for instance if the key is inserted too forcefully or in the wrong position. They can also fail due to corrosion or other causes. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it's not working. You can do it yourself however it's a job that requires removing the covers on the steering column and the airbag cover. This is a risky process and can be difficult. It could also require specialized 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 on the bottom and a clip on the side to secure it to the column. Take these screws off prior to working on the cylinder in order to prevent it from falling out and getting lost. After the screws are removed, you can take off the plastic retainers at the bottom of the cover. There's also a retainer made of metal that clips into the top of the cover to keep it in position. You may have to pry off the cover to take out the tabs on the bottom. You can break them off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab outward. If the tab has been damaged completely you can replace it with a piece perforated metal strapping available at most hardware stores. You'll need U-clips to attach the new “tab” to the bottom. They can be bought from any automotive parts shop. Once the plastic tabs are removed and the airbag cover removed, you are able to access the hole for the ignition cylinder. You can unlock the ignition lock with the Allen wrench 1/16-inch and push the cylinder retaining bolt. Then, you can remove the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder. Remove the Ignition Cylinder Although a majority of vehicles are now equipped with push-to-start technology, there are some vehicles on the market that require an ignition lock. This cylindrical, mechanical part is located inside the electrically-powered part referred to as the “ignition switch” that locks the ignition and “reads the anti-theft codes inside the car key before allowing it to turn on. It may be time to contact an auto locksmith if the vehicle shows signs of a failing lock cylinder. A faulty ignition lock cylinder could cause a variety of issues, including a lack in power to the engine, and difficulty in inserting or taking out the keys. Worn keys can damage wafer tumblers, which allow the ignition cylinder to turn. This can cause an obstruction and stops the vehicle from starting. Based on the model and the make, the ignition switch cover could be secured by clips or screws. With a screwdriver loosen the screw, then remove the cover to reveal the ignition lock cylinder. It's usually a metal cylinder that's roughly the size of a quarter. To take the cylinder off, you'll need 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 cylinder until it is broken. You'll then be able to take the cylinder off and replace it with a replacement. The exact process to remove the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so it is necessary to consult your service manual to determine what steps are required. Once you have the cylinder removed, you can install the new ignition switch. Before you can do that you'll need to replace the covers for the steering column. You'll also need to tighten two screws on top of the lock assembly to secure it. Once you've done this the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult. Remove the Ignition Switch The ignition cylinder and the switch are separate components of the electrical system inside your car. While they may seem identical, they are able to be repaired or replaced separately from one another. The switch is electrical and supplies the power to your vehicle. The cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slide into. In general, you can tell the ignition cylinder is not working due to its inability to turn your key. If the cylinder fails the pins in the tumbler can get worn out which makes it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you find that your key has become worn and won't turn it, the best choice is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith. The ignition cylinder can be removed by removal of the bolt or screw depending on the model of your vehicle. It is essential to check the service manual of your vehicle prior to attempting this at home, because it could be risky and damage the steering column as well as the plastic covers. Additionally the switch is linked with wiring for airbags and any interference with this could cause serious injuries. To remove the ignition cylinder you'll need an instrument to loosen it. You can also use pliers remove 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. After installing the new ignition cylinder you'll need to reconnect all the wires to the electrical connection inside the steering column and test the function. It's usually easiest to disconnect the battery first, then remove the key from the ignition and start the engine. If the ignition is working it's time to reconnect the battery and test it again. If your vehicle is still unable to turn on, you will need to have the immobilizer reset. This can be accomplished by a dealer or an automotive service technician. This is a lengthy procedure and should be done by a certified professional. Reinstall the Ignition Cylinder The ignition switch in your car transmits a signal to the vehicle's engine that it's time to start up. The key is inserted into the lock cylinder to initiate this process, however the pins and wafers within the cylinder may wear out over time. This could make it difficult to turn your car on or even impossible if the cylinder gets stuck. If your car's ignition key doesn't turn, it's a sign that the ignition cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. Locksmiths can replace your ignition cylinder with a comparable one, to ensure that your key will still work with your existing ignition switch. To remove the lock to remove the lock, press down on the release pin located at the bottom of the assembly and move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder is unable to move out, try pressing the release pin, or use an anti-rotation button that is located underneath the face of the cylinder. You can also push down on the cylinder while adjusting the key to the ACC position or accessory to force it out. Install the new cylinder and test it by turning off the vehicle. If it's working, connect the trim pieces that you removed to connect to the cylinder. Then you can perform a relearning procedure to connect the new keys. Although the cylinder lock in the ignition isn't as crucial to the functionality of your car as it was in the past but there are still instances where you'll need to replace it. Talk to a professional such as an locksmith or an automotive dealer to ensure that the task is done without damaging the steering column plastic or other components of your vehicle. It is crucial to ensure that the new ignition is correctly coded so that your car can recognize it as a genuine key. In the majority of instances this, it will require a dealership or other professional to carry out the relearning.