Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned in order for the car to start. It is controlled by a chamber that has springs which can be damaged by environmental factors like low or high temperatures.
If your ignition switch keys, or even the key will not turn, it could be an indication that the lock's cylinder needs to be replaced. This task should be left to a professional auto locksmith.
Remove the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock cylinders can be described as mechanical parts that allow a key to be inserted into the ignition switch and turned in order to start the car. They can wear out or malfunction in different ways, including the key being placed too hard or not in the correct position. They may also fail due to corrosion and other reasons. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it's not working. It's a simple task however, you'll need to remove the steering column cover and the airbag cover. This process can be risky and difficult and the new engine may require specialized tools to put in.
The ignition cylinder is located in the middle column where the steering wheel is positioned. The clip and two screws on the bottom hold the cylinder in position. Take these screws off prior to working on the cylinder to prevent it from falling off and becoming lost.
Once you have the screws removed, you can pull the plastic retainers out of the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer is inserted into the top cover to hold it in the right place. You may need to pry off the cover to remove the tabs on the bottom.
You can break these off by removing the retaining screw and then bending the tab outward. If the tab is broken off completely it can be replaced with a perforated piece of strapping made of metal that is available at many hardware stores. You'll also need some U-clips to secure the new bottom "tab," and these can be sourced from any automotive parts store.
After removing the tabs made of plastic and pulling back the airbag cover, you can access the ignition cylinder. Using the 1/16-inch allen wrench to open the ignition lock and push down the cylinder retaining pin. You can then remove the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with a specific one for an anti-theft system.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Despite the fact that a lot of vehicles are now equipped with push-to-start, there are still certain cars that require an ignition lock. This cylindrical, mechanical component is housed inside the electrically powered device known as the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding within the car key to allow it to start.
If your vehicle is showing signs of a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder, it may be time to contact an auto locksmith for help. A faulty ignition lock cylinder can lead to several problems including the absence of power from the engine, and difficulties in inserting or removing the keys. Keys that are worn out can damage wafer tumblers, which let the ignition cylinder turn. This can cause a blockage and stops the vehicle from getting started.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle the ignition cover could be attached using either a screw or clip. Utilizing a screwdriver to loosen the screw and then slide off the cover, revealing the cylinder for ignition lock. It's typically a steel cylinder that's approximately the size of the size of a quarter.
To remove the cylinder you'll have to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Make use of a drill bit that is slightly larger than the key slot and drill directly into the cylindrical until it breaks. You'll then be able take the cylinder off and replace it with a new.
You'll need to check your service manual for exact steps to remove the ignition cylinder. After the cylinder is removed, you can then install your new ignition switch.
Before you can do that you'll have to replace the covers for the steering column. Two screws are needed to secure the lock assembly in place. Once you've done that, installing your new ignition cylinder will be relatively simple.
Take off the Ignition Switch
The ignition cylinder and switch are distinct components of the electrical system in your vehicle. Although they appear similar, the two are able to be repaired or replaced separately from one another. The switch is the electronic component that supplies power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key slides into. You can tell when the ignition cylinder has failed by the inability to turn your key.
When the cylinder fails the pins in the tumbler may wear out and make it difficult or impossible to pull out or insert your key. If you notice that your key is worn and cannot turn, your best bet is to get the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
The ignition cylinder is exposed by taking off the bolt or screw depending on the make of the vehicle you're using. Check the manual of your vehicle before making the attempt at home. It can be dangerous and cause damage to the steering column or the plastic covers. Furthermore the switch is connected with the airbags' wiring and tampering with it could result in serious injury.
To remove the ignition cylinder, you'll need to use a drill to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers, however, it is more difficult. Once the ignition cylinder is loose and you need to replace it with a new one from a local auto store.
After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll have to connect all the wires to the electrical connection in the steering column, and then test the function. It is usually simpler to disconnect the battery, and then remove the ignition key and start the vehicle. When the ignition is functioning, you can reconnect the battery and try it again. If it doesn't work, you'll need to reset the immobilizer system by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be left to professionals.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends a signal to the vehicle's engine that it's time to start up. car ignition key replacement into a lock cylinder to trigger this process, but the pins and wafers within the cylinder can wear down over time. It can be difficult or impossible to start your car when the cylinder gets stuck.
If your key won't turn on the ignition, it's likely that it needs to be replaced. Locksmiths can replace your ignition cylinder with a similar one so that your key can still work with your existing ignition switch.
To remove the lock to remove the lock, press down on the release pin that is located at the base of your assembly. Then move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder isn't sliding out, try pushing on the release pin once more or using a screwdriver to depress a small anti-rotation button beneath the face of the cylinder. You can also push in on the cylinder by turning the key to the ACC position or accessory to push it out.
After you've removed the old cylinder, install your new one and then turn on the vehicle to ensure whether it's functioning. If it is, you can reconnect the trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder. After that, you can begin a relearning procedure to connect the new keys.
The lock on the ignition cylinder might not be as crucial to the functioning of your car as it used to be, but there are still situations where it is necessary to replace it. It's important to consult an expert like an automotive locksmith or a dealership for cars to ensure that the task is completed correctly without any damage to the steering column plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It is also essential to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is correctly encoded so that your vehicle recognizes it as a genuine key. In most instances this will require a dealer or other professional to perform the relearning.