Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock permits the key to be turned in order for the car to start. It operates through springs and chambers that may be damaged by environmental factors such as high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch or key won't move, it could be a sign that the lock cylinder is damaged and must be replaced. It is best to delegate the job to an expert automotive locksmith.
Remove the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock cylinders are the mechanical components that allow keys to be placed into the ignition switch and then turned to start a car. They can fail or wear out in a variety of ways, such as the key being put in too hard or in the correct position. They may also fail due to corrosion, and other causes. If your ignition cylinder isn't working, it's probably time to replace it. You can do this yourself however it's a job that requires removing the steering column covers and the airbag cover. The process is dangerous and could be difficult. It could also require special tools to the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is found in the middle column where the steering wheel is positioned. The clip and two screws on the bottom of the cylinder hold it in place. Remove these screws before you begin working on the cylinder to prevent it from falling off and getting lost.
Once you have the screws removed, you can pull the plastic retainers from the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer clips into the top of the cover to hold it in position. It is possible to remove the cover from the steering wheel to take off the tabs on the lower part of the plastic.
You can break them off by removing the retaining screw and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab is damaged completely, it can be replaced with a piece perforated metal strapping, which can be found at most hardware stores. You'll require U-clips to secure the new "tab" at the bottom. They can be bought at any auto parts shop.
After removing the plastic tabs and removing the airbag cover, you can reach the ignition cylinder. You can unlock the ignition lock with the Allen wrench 1/16-inch and push the cylinder retaining bolt. Then, you'll be able to pull the cylinder out. You may need to replace it with a specially designed cylinder to protect against theft.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Despite the fact that a lot of vehicles now have push-to-start technology, there are some vehicles on the market that require an ignition lock. This cylinder, which is mechanical, is located inside the electrically-powered component known as the "ignition switch" that is used to lock the ignition and "reads' anti-theft codes within the car key before allowing it to start.
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 from the engine, and difficulty inserting or removing the keys. Worn keys can damage the wafer tumblers that allow for the ignition cylinder to turn and create a blockage that prevents your vehicle from beginning.
Depending on the model and the make, the ignition switch cover can be secured with either a clip or screw. Utilizing a screwdriver to loosen the screw and slide off the cover to reveal the cylinder for ignition lock. It is typically a metal cylinder about the size 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 slot that holds the key, and drill through it until the cylinder breaks free. Then, you can remove the cylinder and then replace it.
The procedure to remove the ignition cylinder varies by manufacturer, so you'll need to read your service manual to find out what steps you need to take. Once the cylinder has been removed, you can install the new ignition switch.
It is first necessary to replace the steering column covers. Two screws will also be needed to secure the lock assembly in place. Once you've done this, installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't be that difficult.
Take out the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and the cylinder lock are two distinct components of your car's electrical system. Although they appear identical, they can be repaired or replaced separately from one other. The switch is electrical and sends the power to your vehicle. The cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into. In general, you can detect that the ignition cylinder is not working due to its inability to turn your key.
If the cylinder fails the pins in the tumbler may wear out and make it difficult or impossible to insert or pull out 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 an experienced locksmith.
Based on the make of your vehicle it could have an anchor bolt or screw that secures the switch, and removing this will expose the cylinder that controls the ignition. Make sure to consult the manual for your car before attempting this at home. It is a risk and cause damage to the steering column or plastic covers. Additionally the switch is linked with airbags' wires and tampering with it could cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition coil, you will need to loosen it using a drill. It is also possible to use pliers however it's more difficult. Once the ignition cylinder is loose it is possible to replace it with a brand new one at your local auto shop.
After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll need to connect all of the wires to the electrical connection inside the steering column and test the function. It's best to disconnect the battery first, then remove the key from the ignition and start the engine. Once the ignition is working then you can connect the battery and test it again. If the vehicle still won't start, you'll need to have your immobilizer system reset. This can be done by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a lengthy procedure, so it's best left to a professional with certification.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends an indication to the engine that it's time to start up. The key is inserted into a lock-cylinder to start this process. However, the pins and waxes inside the cylinder may get worn out over time. This could make it difficult to turn your car on, or even impossible if the cylinder becomes stuck.
If your key doesn't turn on the ignition, it's likely that it needs to be replaced. Locksmiths can replace the cylinder in your ignition with a similar one so that your key will continue to function with your existing ignition switch.
To take off the lock you need to press the release pin located at the bottom of your assembly and move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder won't slide out, you can try pressing the release pin, or use an anti-rotation button that is located underneath the face of the cylinder. You can also try pushing in on the cylinder with your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can push it out.
Install the new cylinder and test it by turning on the vehicle. If car ignition replacement working, connect the trim pieces that you removed to get to the cylinder. Then, you can go through the relearning process to connect the new keys.
The lock for the ignition cylinder may not be as important to the performance of your vehicle as it once was, but there are still situations that require you to replace it. Contact a professional like an locksmith or dealer in the automotive industry to ensure the task is done without damaging the steering column plastic or other components of your vehicle. It is also essential to ensure that the new ignition cylinder has been correctly coded so that your vehicle recognizes it as an authentic key. In the majority of cases this, it will require a dealer or other professional to carry out the relearn.