Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair
The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned and the car to begin. It operates through a chamber and springs that could be damaged by environmental elements such as high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch keys or the switch itself won't turn it could mean that the lock cylinder needs to be replaced. It is recommended to leave this job to a professional locksmith for your automobile.
Take off the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical parts that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to begin an automobile. They can wear out and malfunction for various reasons, for instance when the key is inserted too strongly or in the wrong position. They may also fail due to corrosion and other reasons. If your ignition cylinder isn't turning it's time to replace it. You can do it yourself, but it's a job which requires you to remove the covers for the steering column and the airbag cover. This is a risky process and could be difficult. It could also require specialized tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is situated in the middle of the column, where the steering wheel attaches. The clip and two screws located at the bottom hold the cylinder in position. Take these screws off before you begin working on the cylinder to prevent it from falling out and becoming lost.
After the screws are removed, you can take out the plastic retainers on the bottom of the cover. There's also a retainer made of metal that clips to the top of the cover to keep it in place. You may need to pry off the cover in order to remove the tabs that are lower.
The tabs can be ripped off by taking out one of the retaining screws and then bending the tab a bit. If the tab has been damaged completely you can replace it with a perforated piece of metal strapping that can be found in most hardware shops. You'll need U-clips to attach the new "tab" at the bottom. These can be purchased from any automotive parts shop.
After removing the tabs made of plastic and pulling back the airbag cover, you will be able to access the ignition cylinder. With the 1/16-inch allen wrench, you can open the ignition lock and push on the cylinder retaining pin. Then, you can remove the cylinder. You may need to replace it with a specially designed cylinder for an anti-theft system.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Despite the fact that many vehicles now have push-to-start, there are still certain cars that require an ignition lock. This cylindrical, mechanical part is housed inside the electrically powered device called the ignition switch. It locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding within the car key to allow it to turn on.
It's the right time to contact an auto locksmith if your car shows signs of a failing lock cylinder. A damaged cylinder could cause several problems, including a lack of power to the engine and issues when it comes to inserting and removing the key. Keys that are worn out can damage the wafer tumblers that allow the ignition cylinder to turn and create a blockage that prevents your vehicle from beginning.
Based on the make and model, the ignition switch cover can be secured with a screw or clip. With a screwdriver loosen the screw, then lift the cover to reveal the cylinder that locks the ignition. This is usually a metal cylinder that is about the size of one quarter.
To remove the cylinder you must drill the pin that holds it. Make use of a drill that's slightly larger than the key slot and drill directly into the cylinder until it is broken. Then, you'll be able to remove the cylinder and replace it with a new.
The exact process for removing the ignition cylinder differs by manufacturer, so you'll need to read the service manual to determine what steps are required. After the cylinder is removed, you are now able to install the new ignition switch.
Before you can do this you'll need to replace the covers for the steering column. You'll also need to tighten two screws on top of the lock assembly to hold it in place. After you've done that, installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't prove to be too difficult.
Take off the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and the cylinder lock are two distinct components of the electrical system in your car. Although they might appear like they do, you can fix or replace them in a separate. The switch is electric and supplies the power to your vehicle. The cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical that your key slides into. You can tell when the ignition cylinder has failed due to the inability to turn your key.
When the cylinder is damaged and the pins inside the tumbler can get worn out which makes it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you notice that your key has become damaged and isn't turning it, the best choice is to get the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
Based on the make of your vehicle, there may be an anchor bolt or screw that holds the switch in place, and removing this will expose the ignition cylinder. Check the manual of your vehicle before making the attempt at home. G28 Car Keys can be dangerous and cause damage to the steering column or the plastic covers. The switch is also connected with the wiring for airbags. Tampering with it can cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition coil, you will have to remove it using the help of a drill. You can also use pliers to remove the cylinder from the assembly, but this is often more difficult than using the screwdriver. If the ignition cylinder becomes loose, you can replace it with a brand new one from your local auto store.
You'll need all the wires that are connected to the electrical connector on the steering column in order to test the operation. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery, and then remove the ignition key and then start the vehicle. You can reconnect the battery after the ignition has worked. If it's still not starting it is necessary to reset the immobilizer system by a dealership or 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 an indication to the engine that it's time for it to start. The key is inserted into a lock-cylinder to start this process. However, the pins and waxes inside the cylinder may get worn out over time. It could be difficult or impossible to start your vehicle when the cylinder gets stuck.
If the key in your car won't turn, it's likely that the cylinder that controls ignition has damaged and requires replacement. A skilled locksmith can replace the cylinder using a similar one, so the new key will work with your old ignition switch and will be capable of triggering the engine startup signal.
To remove the lock you need to press the release pin that is located at the base of your assembly. Then move the cylinder out of its housing. If the cylinder isn't sliding out, try pushing in on the release pin once more or using a screwdriver to depress an anti-rotation small button underneath the cylinder's surface. You can also push in on the cylinder by turning the key to the ACC position or use an accessory to push it out.
Once you've removed your old cylinder, put in the new one and then turn on the vehicle to check that it's working. If it's not then you can connect the trim pieces were removed to gain access to the cylinder. Then, you can perform an anti-theft relearn procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.
The ignition cylinder lock may not be as vital to the performance of your car as it used to be but there are instances when it is necessary to replace it. Talk to a professional such as an locksmith or an automotive dealer to ensure the task is done without damaging the steering column or other parts of your vehicle. It's also crucial to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is properly encoded so that your vehicle can recognize it as a genuine key. In the majority of cases this will require a dealer or other professional to perform the relearning.