Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition lock in the cylinder is responsible allowing the key to turn and start the vehicle. It works through a chamber and springs that may be damaged by environmental factors like low or high temperatures.
If your ignition switch, key or both won't turn it could be an indication that the lock's cylinder has to be replaced. It is best to leave this job to a professional locksmith for your automobile.
Take off the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical components that allow a key to be inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to start the vehicle. They can fail or wear out in different ways, such as keys that are placed too hard or not in the correct place. They may also fail due to corrosion, and other causes. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if you notice it's not working. You can do this yourself, but it's a job that requires you to remove the steering column covers and the airbag cover. The process is risky and challenging and the new engine may require specialized tools to install.
The ignition cylinder is situated in the middle of the column, where the steering wheel attaches. The clip and two screws located at the bottom hold the cylinder in position. It's important to remove them before you begin working on the cylinder so it doesn't fall off and get lost.
Once the screws are removed, you can take the plastic retainers out of the lower part of the cover. A metal retainer clips into the top cover to keep it in the right place. You may need to pry off the cover in order to remove the lower tabs.
You can break these off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab has broken off completely it can be repaired with a piece of perforated metal strapping that's found at a majority of hardware stores. You'll need U-clips for attaching the new "tab" to the bottom. They can be bought at any auto parts shop.
After the tabs made of plastic are removed and the airbag cover is pulled back, you will be able to access the hole for the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock using the Allen wrench 1/16-inch and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. Then, you can take the cylinder away. 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 many vehicles are now equipped with push-to-start, there are still some cars on the market that require an ignition lock. This mechanical cylinder is located inside the electrically-powered component referred to as the "ignition switch", which locks the ignition, and "reads' anti-theft codes within the car key before allowing it start.
If your car is showing signs of a failing ignition lock cylinder, it might be time to contact an auto locksmith for assistance. A damaged cylinder could cause several problems, including a lack of power to the engine as well as problems when it comes to inserting and removing the key. Worn keys can damage the wafer tumblers that allow the ignition cylinder to rotate into a jam which prevents your car from starting.
Depending on your model and the make the cover of your ignition switch can be secured with clips or screws. By using a screwdriver, loosen up the screw, then remove the cover to reveal the ignition lock cylinder. It's typically a steel cylinder, which is approximately the size of the size of a quarter.
To take the cylinder off, you'll need to remove the pin that holds it in place. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the slot for the key, and drill through it until the cylinder is broken. Then, you'll be able to remove the cylinder and replace it with a new.
ignition cylinder lock repair for removing the ignition cylinder varies by manufacturer, so you'll need to review the service manual to determine what steps are required. Once you have the cylinder removed, you can put in your new ignition switch.
First, you'll need to replace the covers for the steering column. Two screws are required to hold the lock assembly in place. After you've done that, installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too 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, you can repair or replace them separately. The switch is electrical and sends energy to your vehicle. The cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into. You can tell if your ignition cylinder has failed by its inability to turn the key.
When the cylinder is damaged, the pins in the tumbler may wear out, making it difficult or impossible to insert or pull your key. If you notice that your key is damaged and isn't turning it, the best choice is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
Depending on your vehicle's make it could have a screw or bolt that secures the switch, and removing this will expose the ignition cylinder. It is important to read the manual for your vehicle before making the attempt at home as it can be dangerous and damage the steering column as well as the plastic covers. The switch is also connected with the wiring for airbags. Tampering with it can cause serious injuries.
To take the ignition cylinder out it is necessary to use drills to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers, however it's more difficult. When the ignition cylinder becomes loose it is possible to replace it with a brand new one from a local auto store.
After installing the new ignition cylinder you'll have to connect all of the wires to the electrical connection in the steering column and test it to ensure that it functions properly. It's usually easiest to disconnect the battery first, then remove the key from the ignition and start the engine. When the ignition is functioning then you can connect the battery and try it again. If the car still doesn't start, you'll require having your immobilizer reset. This can be accomplished by a dealer or automotive service technician. This can be a complex procedure and should be done by a certified professional.
Reinstall the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends a signal telling the engine it's time for it to begin. The key is inserted into a lock-cylinder in order to start this process. However the waxes and pins in the cylinder can get worn out over time. This could make it difficult to turn on your car, or even impossible if the cylinder becomes stuck.
If your car's key won't turn, it's a sign that the ignition cylinder is worn down and needs replacing. A locksmith can replace your ignition cylinder with a comparable one, so that your key can continue to work with your current ignition switch.
To remove the old lock cylinder to remove it, push it into the release pin at the bottom of the assembly, and lift the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder isn't sliding out, try pressing on the release pin a second time or using a screwdriver to press a small anti-rotation button beneath the face of the cylinder. You can also push down on the cylinder by turning the key to the ACC position or accessory to push it out.
Once you've removed your old cylinder, replace it with the new one and turn on the vehicle to check whether it's functioning. If it's working then you can connect any trim pieces that were removed to gain access to the cylinder and follow an anti-theft procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.
While the ignition cylinder lock isn't as integral to the functioning of your car as it used to be, there are still many situations where you may require replacing it. It's important to consult a professional, such as an automotive locksmith or a car dealer to ensure that the job is done in a safe manner without causing any damage to the steering column's or other components in your vehicle. It is essential to ensure that the new ignition is properly coded so that your car can recognize it as authentic keys. In most cases, this will require a dealer or other professional to perform the relearning.