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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder If your car key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, as opposed to the switch, which is an electrical part of the ignition system. Over time, these “wafer” tumblers can wear out or break. Using WD-40 or graphite may temporarily fix the problem but replacement is the only way to fix it permanently. Removal of the steering column Modern cars do not have steering column locks. They use a key to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating a switch in the dashboard panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the traditional lock cylinder. If this component is damaged, it might be required to replace it to get the car started. This is a task that should be left to professionals. Remove the trim panels that cover the lower and upper columns of the steering using a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area surrounding the steering column. On the side of the column that is closest to the driver, you'll find an Allen head bolt that pins the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Take this bolt off and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you might have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside. To access the lock cylinder, you will have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. You can either use a special tool to remove it or ghetto it with the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. g28carkeys.co.uk can also use a bolt removal kit. If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch, the lock cylinder may be stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and then move it to the ACC to press the lock cylinder's pin. A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with a torch and then shave it to take it off the lock. They can also re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition. Replace the Ignition Cylinder The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and secures the key to your vehicle. The cylinder “reads” the anti-theft codes and matches your key to turn on or off your car. The cylinder can wear down over time. It could be bent or broken. In this situation, you will need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car started. Symptoms of a broken or worn cylinder include problems with turning the key, or with the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have a spare, consider using it inside the lock. You could try using some WD-40 or graphite to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this is only effective for a brief period of period of time. Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder ensure it is placed in the steering column tube flange, and that it is correctly aligned with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to confirm the cylinder is correctly aligned. Once the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch has been fully seated into the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure for the new ignition cylinder in order to program it to your key. Some experts suggest that you hire a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order to get to the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement is likely to involve removal and replacement of the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is a task best left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able to take off the cover for the steering column and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They'll also be able to ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed by your key and that it is properly started when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles due to advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still widespread on older cars. If you're having difficulty starting your car or if the ignition switch is stuck, it could be an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's easy to fix your car's issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock. The ignition cylinder is the part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your car and sends power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are separate components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to the computer in your car and transmits signals to activate the motor when you turn the ignition key. Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate within the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction, which keeps the key in position. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. When the tumblers have worn down, the key of your car will not be able to slide into or turn the cylinder. The first sign of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. The key could also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as possible. It's easy to replace your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific model and make. You can do the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics perform the work for you at a convenient time and place. Testing the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is affixed to your key and allows it to turn and start your car. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which locks the ignition, and reads the anti-theft code to authorize key turning. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and may eventually fail, leading to issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key. The most obvious signs that a car's lock cylinder is preparing to be damaged is having trouble getting your car started or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has worn down and requires replacement. In some cases you may even see an alert light on your dashboard that signals the possibility of a failure. As the cylinder ages, it can become damaged by corrosion or simply wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which could stop your car's ignition from functioning. The ignition could still function in some cases if you move it around. However this could indicate something is not right. You can check the cylinder of your ignition and determine if the key or cylinder is damaged or worn out. You can use a multimeter to check whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire connection of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you don't find any or no voltage, then the module and switch probably need to be replaced. It's best to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, since it could cost between $200 and $300. The process is complicated by the fact that you could have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have the replacement process may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll need to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This is typically done at an authorized dealer however, you can learn how to do it yourself using the proper tools and instructions.