Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned in order for the car to start. It is controlled by a chamber containing springs that may be damaged due to environmental factors such as low or high temperatures.
If your ignition switch, key or both will not turn, it could indicate that the lock cylinder needs to be replaced. It is recommended to leave this job to a professional automotive locksmith.
Remove the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical parts that allow a key into the ignition switch to be turned to start a vehicle. They are prone to wear out and malfunction for a number of reasons, including when the key is put in too forcefully or placed in the wrong place. They may also break down and fail due to corrosion or other causes. If your ignition cylinder isn't turning and isn't turning, it's time to replace it. This is a straightforward task, but you'll need to remove the cover of the steering column and airbag cover. The process is risky and complicated and the new cylinder may require special tools to put in.
The ignition cylinder can be located in the middle column, where the steering wheel is attached. The clip and two screws on the bottom secure the cylinder in position. It is important to remove them before you begin working on the cylinder so it doesn't fall out and disappear.
After the screws have been removed, you can remove the plastic retainers at the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer clips into the top cover to keep it in position. You may need to pry the cover from the steering wheel in order to remove the tabs made of plastic that are lower.
You can break them off by removing the screw that holds them and then bending the tab outward. If the tab is broken completely, it can be replaced with a piece perforated metal strapping which is available at most hardware stores. You'll also require U-clips to attach the new bottom "tab," and these can be sourced from any automotive parts shop.
Once the plastic tabs have been removed and the airbag cover is pulled back, you can access the ignition cylinder hole. You can open the ignition lock using the Allen wrench of 1/16-inch and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. Then, you can pull the cylinder out. You may have to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Although a majority of vehicles now have push-to-start technology, there are some vehicles on the market that require an ignition lock. This mechanical cylinder is located inside the electrically powered device known as the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and "reads" the anti-theft code inside the car key to allow it to turn on.
If your car is showing signs of a malfunctioning ignition lock cylinder, it could be time to contact an auto locksmith to get help. A damaged cylinder can lead to various issues, including a lack of power from the engine, as well as issues with inserting and taking out the key. Keys that are worn out can damage the wafer tumblers that allow for the ignition cylinder to turn and create a blockage which prevents your car from beginning.
Depending on your make and model the cover of your ignition switch may be held on by clips or screws. Using a screwdriver, loosen the screw and slide off the cover to reveal the cylinder for ignition lock. This is usually a metal cylindrical device about the size of one quarter.
To remove the cylinder, you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Make use of a drill bit that is slightly larger than the slot that holds the key and then drill straight into it until the cylinder is broken. Then, you'll be able to take the cylinder off and replace it with a replacement.
The exact process to remove the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so you'll need to read your service manual to find out what steps are required. After G28 Car Keys is removed, you can then install the new ignition switch.
Before you can do that you'll need to replace the covers for the steering column. Two screws are needed to secure the lock assembly in place. Once you've completed this installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.
Remove the Ignition Switch
The ignition cylinder and the switch are separate parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they might appear like they are, they can be repaired or replaced separately 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 discern that the cylinder for ignition is not working properly by its inability to turn your key.
When the cylinder is damaged the pins in the tumbler can get worn out, making it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you notice that your key has become worn and cannot turn, your best bet is to get the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by an experienced locksmith.
Based on the model of your car, there may be a screw or bolt that secures the switch, and removing this will expose the cylinder of ignition. Make sure to consult the manual for your car before making the attempt 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 airbag wiring. Tampering with it can cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition coil, you will need to loosen it using the aid of a drill. You may also use pliers to remove the cylinder from the assembly, but this is often more difficult than using the screwdriver. When the ignition cylinder becomes loose it is possible to replace it with a new one from your local auto store.
After installing the new ignition cylinder you'll need to reconnect all of the wires to the electrical connections in the steering column and test it to ensure that it functions properly. It is usually easier to disconnect the battery, then remove the ignition key, and then start the vehicle. The battery can be reconnected after the ignition has been activated. If the car still doesn't turn on, you will require that the immobilizer system reset. This can be done by a dealer or an automotive service technician. This is a lengthy procedure, and is better left to a professional with certification.
Install 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 then inserted into a lock-cylinder to start this process. However, the pins and waxes inside the cylinder may wear away over time. It could be difficult or impossible to start your vehicle in the event that the cylinder is stuck.
If your car's ignition key doesn't turn, it's a sign that the cylinder for ignition is worn out and requires replacement. A locksmith can replace your ignition cylinder with a comparable one, to ensure that your key will still work with your existing ignition switch.
To remove the old lock, press down on the release pin at the bottom of your assembly and move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder doesn't slide out, try pushing on the release pin again or using a screwdriver to depress an anti-rotation small button underneath the cylinder's face. You could also try pushing down on the cylinder using your key while rotating it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can force it out.
Once you've removed the old cylinder, put in the new one and switch on the vehicle to check whether it's functioning. If it is it's working, you can connect any trim pieces you removed to access the cylinder and apply an anti-theft relearning procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.
The lock for the ignition cylinder may not be as vital to the functioning of your vehicle as it was in the past however there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. Talk to a professional such as an automotive dealer or locksmith to ensure the task is done without damaging the steering column plastic or other components of your vehicle. It's important to make sure that the new ignition is properly coded to ensure that your car recognizes it as an authentic key. In the majority of cases this, it will require a dealership or other professional to carry out the relearn.