Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition lock in the cylinder is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the car. It operates through springs and chambers which may be damaged by environmental elements such as high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch or key doesn't turn, it could indicate that the lock cylinder is damaged and requires to be replaced. It is recommended to leave this job to a professional automotive locksmith.
Take off the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock cylinders are mechanical components that allow keys to be placed into the ignition switch and then turned in order to start a car. They are prone to wear out and malfunction for many reasons, such as if the key is inserted too forcefully or in the wrong position. They can also fail due to corrosion, and other reasons. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if it's not working. This is a simple job however, you'll need to remove the steering column cover and airbag cover. This is a risky process and could be difficult. It may also require specialized tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is found in the middle column where the steering wheel is positioned. It has two screws on the bottom and a clip on the side to secure it to the column. 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 remove the plastic retainers out of the bottom of the cover. There's also a retainer made of metal that clips onto the top of the cover to hold it in place. You may have to pull the cover off of the steering wheel to take off the tabs made of plastic that are lower.
These can be broken off by taking off one of the retaining screws, and then bending the tab a bit. If the tab is damaged completely it can be replaced with a piece perforated metal strapping that's found in most hardware stores. You'll also require U-clips for the new bottom "tab," and these can be purchased from any automotive parts store.
After removing the tabs of plastic and pulling back the airbag cover, you can access the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock with the Allen wrench 1/16-inch and pull the retaining bolt of the cylinder. You can then remove the cylinder. It may be necessary to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Despite the fact that many vehicles are now equipped with push-to-start technology, there are 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" that is used to lock the ignition, and "reads the anti-theft code within the car key before allowing it to start.
It could be the right time to contact an auto locksmith if your vehicle has signs of a damaged lock cylinder. locksmith ignition replacement cost can cause numerous issues, including absence of power from the engine, as well as issues with inserting and removing the key. Keys that are damaged by wear can cause damage to wafer tumblers that let the cylinder to turn. This can cause a blockage and stops the vehicle from getting started.
Depending on the model and make, the ignition switch cover may be held on by a screw or clip. With a screwdriver, loosen the screw, and then slide the cover off to reveal the cylinder that locks the ignition. It is typically a metal cylinder about the size a quarter.
To take the cylinder off, you'll need to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the slot for the key and then drill through it until the cylinder snaps free. You can then remove the cylinder and replace it.
The procedure to remove the ignition cylinder varies by manufacturer, so it is necessary to review the service manual to determine 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 covers for the steering column. Two screws are needed to secure the lock assembly in place. Once you've done this installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't be that difficult.
Take off the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and the cylinder lock are two distinct parts of your car's electrical system. Although they appear identical, they can be repaired or replaced independently of one other. The switch is the electronic component that provides power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into. You can tell when the ignition cylinder has failed by its inability to turn the key.
When the cylinder fails the pins in the tumbler can wear out, making it hard 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 get the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by an experienced locksmith.
The ignition cylinder is uncovered by removing the screw or bolt depending on the make of your vehicle. It's important to consult the manual for your vehicle before attempting this at home, as it can be dangerous and cause damage to the steering column and plastic covers. Furthermore, the switch is bundled with the airbags' wiring, and tampering with this can result in serious injury.
To take the ignition cylinder out, you'll need to use a drill to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers but it can be 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 inside the steering column and test it for proper function. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery first, then take the ignition key and start the engine. If the ignition is working, you can reconnect the battery and test it again. If it still won't start, you'll need to reset the immobilizer system by a dealership or service technician. This is a lengthy procedure that should be left to professionals.
Reinstall the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car sends an indication to the engine that it's time for it to begin. The key is inserted into a lock-cylinder to initiate this process. However the waxes and pins inside the cylinder could get worn out over time. This could make it difficult to turn your car on, or even impossible if your cylinder gets stuck.
If your key won't turn on the ignition, it's likely that it's due to needing to be replaced. A skilled locksmith can replace the cylinder with an identical one, meaning your new key will work with the original ignition switch, and will be able to trigger the engine's startup signal.
To remove the lock, press down on the release pin at the bottom of the assembly and move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder doesn't slide out, try pushing in on the release pin again or using a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation button under the cylinder's surface. You may also try pushing in on the cylinder using your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to try and force it out.
Once you've removed your old cylinder, install your new one and turn on the vehicle to ensure whether it's functioning. If so, you can reconnect the trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder. Then you can perform the relearning process to connect the new keys.
The ignition cylinder lock may not be as crucial to the functionality of your vehicle as it was in the past but there are situations that require you to replace it. Contact a professional like an automotive dealer or locksmith to ensure that the job is completed without damaging the steering column or other parts of your vehicle. It's important to make sure that the new ignition is correctly coded so that your car can recognize it as a genuine key. This will usually require an expert or a dealer to do this relearn.