Guide To Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair: The Intermediate Guide Towards Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned and the car ignition switch to start. It is controlled by a chamber that has springs which can be damaged due to environmental factors such as low or high temperatures.
If your ignition switch, key or both isn't turning, it could be an indication that the lock's cylinder has to be replaced. This task should be left to an auto locksmith professional.
Remove the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical components that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to turn off an automobile. They can wear out and malfunction for a number of reasons, for instance when the key is put in too strongly or in the wrong place. They can also fail due to corrosion or other causes. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if you notice it's not working. You can do it yourself however, it's a task that requires you to remove the steering column covers and the airbag cover. This is a risky process and can be difficult. It may also require special tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder can be located in the middle column where the steering wheel is mounted. The clip and two screws on the bottom of the cylinder hold it in position. It is important to remove them before you begin working on the cylinder to ensure that it doesn't fall out and disappear.
After the screws are removed, you can take out the plastic retainers at the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer clips into the top cover to keep it in place. You may need to pry off the cover in order to remove the lower tabs.
You can break them off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab outward. If the tab has broken completely it can be repaired by a piece of perforated metal strapping which is available in most hardware stores. You'll also require U-clips for the new bottom "tab," and these can be purchased from any auto ignition key replacement parts store.
Once the plastic tabs are removed and the airbag cover is pulled back, you can access the cylinder hole in the ignition. You can open the ignition lock with the Allen wrench 1/16-inch and pull the retaining bolt of the cylinder. Then, you can take the cylinder out. You may have to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Although many newer vehicles have been upgraded to push-to start systems, there are still a good number of cars on the road that require an ignition lock cylinder. This cylindrical, mechanical component is located inside the electrically powered part called the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft codes inside the car key to allow it to start.
It could be time to call an auto locksmith if your car shows signs of a failing lock cylinder. A faulty cylinder can cause several problems, including a lack of power from the engine and issues when it comes to inserting and removing the key. Worn keys can damage wafer tumblers, which let the ignition cylinder to turn. This leads to a jam and prevents the vehicle from starting.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle The ignition cover can be secured by either a screw or clip. With a screwdriver, loosen the screw and then slide off the cover to expose the ignition lock cylinder. It's typically a steel cylinder, which is about the size of one quarter.
To take the cylinder off, you'll need to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Make use of a drill bit that is slightly larger than the slot for the key and drill straight into it until the cylinder is broken. You'll then be able to pull the cylinder out and replace it with a new.
You'll need to consult your service manual to find out the specific steps to remove the ignition cylinder. Once the cylinder has been removed, you can put in the new ignition switch.
Before you can do that you'll need to replace the covers on the steering column. You'll also need to tighten two screws on the top of the lock assembly to hold it 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 different parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they appear similar, you can repair or replace them in a separate. The switch is the electrical portion that sends power to the vehicle, while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key slides into. You can tell when the ignition cylinder has failed by its inability turn your key.
If the cylinder fails, the pins inside the tumbler can wear out, making it difficult or impossible to insert or pull your key. If you notice your key is damaged and won't turn anymore, it's best to have the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
Depending on your vehicle's make it could have an anchor bolt or screw that is used to secure the switch and removal of this will expose the cylinder that controls the ignition. It is important to read the service manual of your vehicle prior to making the attempt at home as it can be dangerous and cause damage to the steering column and plastic covers. Additionally, the switch is bundled with the airbags' wiring and any interference with this could cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition coil, you'll have to remove it using a drill. You may also use pliers to disengage it from the rest of the assembly however this is usually more difficult than using a screwdriver. Once the ignition cylinder has been removed, you can buy a new one from your local auto shop.
After installing the new ignition cylinder, you'll need to connect all of the wires to the electrical connections in the steering column, and then test it for proper function. It's usually easiest to disconnect the battery first, then take the key from the ignition and start the engine. If the ignition is working it's time to reconnect the battery and test it again. If it doesn't work then you'll need to reset the immobilizer system by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be handled by a professional.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car transmits an indication to the engine that it's time to start up. The key is inserted into a lock-cylinder in order to start this process. However the pins and waxes in the cylinder can wear away over time. It may be difficult or impossible to start your vehicle if the cylinder becomes stuck.
If your key won't turn on the ignition, it is likely that it needs to be replaced. A skilled locksmith can replace the cylinder with an identical one, meaning your new key will work with your old fix ignition switch switch and will be able to trigger the engine's startup signal.
To remove the old lock cylinder to remove it, push it into the release pin at the base of the assembly and remove the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder won't slide out, try pressing on the release pin again or using a screwdriver to depress the small anti-rotation button under the cylinder's face. You could also try pushing down on the cylinder using your key while turning it to the ACC or accessory position to try and push it out.
Install the new cylinder and test it by turning the car on. If it's not then you can connect any trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder. Then, you can apply an anti-theft relearning procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.
Although the cylinder lock in the ignition isn't as crucial to the functionality of your car as it was in the past however, there are many instances where you'll require replacing it. Contact a professional like an automotive dealer or locksmith to ensure that the job 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 coded correctly so that your car can recognize it as an authentic key. This typically requires a professional or a dealer to perform this relearning.