Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned, allowing the car to begin. It is controlled by a chamber with springs which can be damaged due to environmental factors such as low or high temperatures.
If your ignition switch keys, or even the key isn't turning, it could mean that the lock's cylinder needs to be replaced. This task should be left to an auto locksmith professional.
Remove the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock cylinders can be described as mechanical components that allow keys to be placed into the ignition switch and then turned in order to start the car. They can fail or wear out in various ways, including keys being inserted too hard or not in the correct place. They may also fail due to corrosion and other reasons. If your ignition cylinder doesn't seem to be turning, it's probably time to replace it. You can do this yourself however, it's a task that requires removing the covers for the steering column and the airbag cover. The process is dangerous and could be difficult. It may also require special tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is located in the middle column, where the steering wheel is positioned. The clip and two screws at the bottom hold the cylinder in place. It's important to remove these screws before you begin working on the cylinder so it doesn't fall out and become lost.
After the screws have been removed, you can remove the plastic retainers at the bottom of the cover. There's a metal retainer that clips into the top of the cover to keep it in position. You may have to pry off the cover to remove the tabs that are lower.
You can break them off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab is broken completely it can be repaired with a piece perforated metal strapping, which can be found at a majority of hardware stores. You'll require U-clips to secure the new "tab" to the bottom. These can be purchased at any auto parts shop.
After removing the tabs made of plastic and removing the airbag cover, it is now possible to access the ignition cylinder. Using the 1/16-inch allen wrench, you can open the ignition lock and push down the pin that holds the cylinder. You can then remove the cylinder. It is possible to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.
Remove the Ignition Cylinder
While many of the latest vehicles have been upgraded to push-to start systems, there's plenty of vehicles on the road that need an ignition lock cylinder. This cylinder, which is mechanical, is contained in the electrically powered component known as the "ignition switch", which locks the ignition and "reads' anti-theft codes within the car key before allowing it to turn on.
If your vehicle is showing signs of a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder, it could be time to contact an auto locksmith to get help. A malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder could cause numerous issues, such as an absence of power to the engine, and difficulty in inserting or taking out the keys. auto locksmith ignition replacement can damage the wafer tumblers that allow the ignition cylinder to rotate into a jam which prevents your car from getting started.
Depending on the model and the make the cover of your ignition switch could be secured by either a clip or screw. With a screwdriver, loosen the screw and slide off the cover, revealing the ignition lock cylinder. This is typically a metal cylinder, which is about the size of one quarter.
To remove the cylinder, 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 then drill straight into it until the cylinder breaks free. You can then remove the cylinder and then replace it.
The exact process for removing the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so you'll need to read your service manual to find out the steps to follow. Once the cylinder has been removed, you can install the new ignition switch.
Before you can do this you'll need to replace the steering column covers. You'll also need to fix two screws on top of the lock assembly to secure it. After you've done that the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn't be too difficult.
Remove the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and the cylinder lock are two distinct parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they might appear like they are, they can be replaced or repaired in a different manner from one another. The switch is the part that sends power to the vehicle, while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into. In general, you can detect that the ignition cylinder is failing by its inability to turn your key.
When the cylinder fails, the pins inside the tumbler can get worn out, making it difficult or impossible to pull out or insert your key. If you find 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.
The ignition cylinder can be removed by removing the screw or bolt depending on the model of your vehicle. Check the manual of your vehicle before you attempt this at home. It could be hazardous and result in damage to the steering column or the plastic covers. The switch is also bundled with the wiring for airbags. Tampering with it can cause serious injury.
To remove the ignition coil, you'll have to remove it using the help of a drill. It is also possible to use pliers however it's more difficult. Once the ignition cylinder is removed, you can purchase a new one from your local auto shop.
After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll need to reconnect all of the wires to the electrical connections in the steering column and then test the function. It is usually simpler to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition key and then start the vehicle. The battery can be reconnected after the ignition has worked. If the vehicle still won't turn on, you will require that your immobilizer reset. This can be accomplished by a dealer or an automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be left to an expert.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends out an indication to the engine that it's time to begin. The key is inserted into a lock cylinder to start the process, but the pins and wafers inside the cylinder can wear down over time. This could make it difficult to turn on your car or even impossible if the cylinder gets stuck.
If your key doesn't turn on the ignition, it's likely that it needs to be replaced. A skilled locksmith can replace the cylinder using a similar one, so the new key will work with the old ignition switch and will still be able to trigger the engine's startup signal.
To remove the lock you need to press the release pin that is located at the bottom of your assembly and move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder is unable to be able to slide out, try pressing the release pin, or use a small anti rotation button on the front of the cylinder. You can also push down on the cylinder while adjusting the key to the ACC position, or attach an accessory to push it out.
Install the new cylinder and test it by turning on the vehicle. If it's not then you can connect the trim pieces were removed to gain access to the cylinder. You can then 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 but there are still instances where you'll need to replace it. Talk to a professional such as an automotive dealer or locksmith to ensure the task is done without causing damage to the steering column plastic or other components of your vehicle. It's important to make sure that the new ignition is properly coded so that your car recognizes it as a genuine key. This usually requires a professional or a dealer to do this relearn.