Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the car. It is controlled by a chamber containing springs which can be damaged by environmental conditions like high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch or key doesn't move, it could indicate that the cylinder for your lock is damaged and must be replaced. This is a job best left to an auto locksmith professional.
Take off the covers of the steering column.
Ignition lock cylinders can be described as mechanical parts that allow a key to be inserted into the ignition switch and then turned to turn on a car. They can be damaged and fail due to various reasons, for instance when the key is inserted too forcefully or placed in the wrong position. They may also break down and fail due to corrosion or other causes. It's time to replace your ignition cylinder if you notice it's not functioning. You can do it yourself however, it's a task that requires removing the covers for the steering column and the airbag cover. The process is risky and could be difficult. It could also require specialized tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder can be found in the middle column where the steering wheel is attached. It has two screws at the bottom and a clip on the side that holds it to the column. Take these screws off prior to working on the cylinder in order to prevent it from slipping out and becoming lost.
Once the screws are removed, you can take off the plastic retainers at the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer is inserted into the top cover to keep it in position. It is possible to pull off the cover to remove the tabs that are lower.
You can break these off by removing the retaining screw and bending the tab slightly outward. If the tab has broken completely it can be repaired with a piece perforated metal strapping that's found at a majority of hardware stores. You'll also require U-clips to secure the new bottom "tab," and these can be purchased from any automotive parts shop.
After the tabs made of plastic are removed and the airbag cover has been removed, you are able to access the hole for the ignition cylinder. You can open the ignition lock by using the 1/16-inch Allen wrench and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. Then, you can pull the cylinder away. It is possible to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
While many modern vehicles have transitioned to push-to-start systems, there's a good number of cars on the road that require an ignition lock cylinder. This cylindrical, mechanical component is housed inside the electrically powered device called the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding within 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 call an auto locksmith to get help. A damaged cylinder can lead to several problems, including a lack of power to the engine, as well as issues when it comes to inserting and removing the key. Worn keys can damage wafer tumblers that let the ignition cylinder turn. This causes an obstruction and stops the vehicle from getting started.
Depending on the brand and model of your car the ignition cover could be attached using a clip or screw. With a screwdriver loosen the screw, and then slide the cover off to reveal the ignition lock cylinder. This is typically a metal cylinder approximately the size of the size of a quarter.
To remove the cylinder, you'll have to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Use a drill bit that's slightly larger than the key slot, and drill directly into the cylinder until it is broken. Then, you can take the cylinder out and replace it.
The procedure for removing the ignition cylinder varies by manufacturer, so it is necessary to read the service manual to determine what steps are required. Once the cylinder has been removed, you can then install the new ignition switch.
Before you can do that you'll have to replace the covers for the steering column. Two screws are needed to secure the lock assembly in place. After this, installing your new ignition cylinder will be fairly straightforward.
Take out the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and cylinder are separate parts of the electrical system inside your car. While they may seem like they are, they can be replaced or repaired in a different manner from one other. The switch is the part that provides power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into. You can tell if the ignition cylinder has failed due to its inability turn your key.
When the cylinder fails the pins in the tumbler could wear out, making it difficult or impossible to pull or insert your key. If you notice that your key is damaged and isn't turning anymore it's recommended that you get the wafers replaced or smoothed out by professional locksmiths.
The ignition cylinder can be removed by taking off the bolt or screw depending on the make of the vehicle you're using. It's important to consult your vehicle's service manual before attempting this at home, since it can be hazardous and cause damage to the steering column and plastic covers. fix car ignition is also connected with the wiring for airbags. Tampering with it can cause serious injuries.
To take the ignition cylinder out you'll need an instrument to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers, but it can be more difficult. If 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 connect all the wires to the electrical connection in the steering column and test it for proper function. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery, and then remove the ignition key and then start the car. You can reconnect the battery after the ignition has been activated. If it doesn't work it is necessary to reset the immobilizer system by a dealership or service technician. This is a lengthy procedure that should be handled by professionals.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car transmits a signal to the vehicle's engine that it's time to get started. The key is inserted into the lock cylinder to initiate this process, however the pins and wafers within the cylinder may wear out over time. This could make it difficult to turn on your car, or even impossible if the cylinder becomes stuck.
If your key won't turn on the ignition, it is likely that it's due to needing to be replaced. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder with a new one, so your new key will work with the old ignition switch and will still be capable of triggering the engine startup signal.
To remove the lock cylinder that was previously in use, push in on the release pin on the bottom of the assembly, and lift the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder is unable to be able to slide out, try pressing the release pin or pressing a small anti rotation button underneath the face of cylinder. You can also push in on the cylinder while adjusting the key to the ACC position or use an accessory to force it out.
Once you've removed the old cylinder, replace it with the new one and turn on the vehicle to make sure whether it's functioning. If so, you can connect the trim pieces you removed to connect to the cylinder. After that, you can begin an re-learning process to connect the new keys.
The ignition cylinder lock may not be as important to the functioning of your car as it was in the past however there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. Talk to a professional such as an locksmith or dealer in the automotive industry to ensure that the task is done without causing damage to the steering column's or other parts of your vehicle. It's also important to ensure that the new ignition cylinder has been correctly coded so that your vehicle recognizes it as an authentic key. In most instances this will require a dealership or other professional to carry out the relearning.