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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder If your car's ignition key isn't turning, it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into, as opposed to the switch which is an electrical component of the ignition system. Over time over time, these “wafer” tumblers wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily resolve the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only option. Eliminating the Steering Column Modern cars do not use steering column locks. They make use of a key to start the car by pressing and rotating an electronic switch located in the dash panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it to start the car. This is not a job for the beginner and is best left to professionals. Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower column of the steering with a screwdriver. This will allow you to access the area around the steering column. On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that pins the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Remove this bolt and place it away. Based on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch. Take these screws off and put them aside. To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This will require the use of a specially designed tool or you can ghetto perform the task using an object of metal such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of a bolt removal kit. If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can either call locksmiths or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to press the pin on the lock cylinder. A locksmith can employ a shear cylinder removing tool or they can cut the pin from the lock cylinder using an electric torch, and then shave it down to take it off the lock. They can replace the cylinder's keys to match your current keys and will save you the expense of purchasing a new ignition cylinder. Replace the Ignition Cylinder The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which is used to house and lock the key of your vehicle. The cylinder “reads” the anti-theft code and then fits your key to allow you to start or stop your car. The cylinder can wear down over time. It may be bent or broken. In this instance you'll need replace the cylinder to get your car started. The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems when turning your key or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it inside the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, but this method is only effective for a certain amount of time. Replace the ignition cylinder if have an additional key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly placed within the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an expert. Once the cylinder is in, turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated in the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you'll be required to go through the anti-theft relearn process to program the new ignition cylinder with your key. Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's usually necessary to deactivate the steering column airbag to get to the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely involve removal and replacement of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave the job to a professional mechanic with experience. ignition lock repair 'll be able to take off the cover on the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder Even though ignition lock cylinders have become less important in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart technology, older cars still make use of them. If you're having difficulty starting your car or if the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock. The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your car and provides power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase “ignition switch” with the ignition cylinder, they're actually two separate parts. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the key. The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move upwards and downwards, allowing your key to slide and rotate inside the cylinder. Each movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder. The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. The key could also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as fast as you can. Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's an undertaking that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer when you're confident enough to follow the proper procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the work for you at a convenient time and location. Testing the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits on your key in order to enable it to turn and start your car. It is inserted into the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to allow the key to turn. The cylinder for the ignition lock will wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to remove and insert keys. The main indications that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to go bad include difficulty starting your vehicle or finding positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These issues are typically an indication that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. You might even notice a warning light flashing on your dashboard, signalling the possibility of a failure. As the cylinder age, it can become damaged due to corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue functioning. The ignition could still function in some cases if you move it around. However it could indicate that something is not right. You can test your ignition cylinder and see whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you can back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's the voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will likely need to be replaced. It's best to hire an expert mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder, as it can cost between $200 to $300. It's not an easy task because you may have to remove other components like the steering column to access the ignition cylinder. Depending on the model of your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at an authorized dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself using the proper tools and instructions.