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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder If your car's keys won't turn and it's time to replace the cylinder for ignition lock. In contrast to the switch that is the electrical part of the ignition system that supplies power to your vehicle's engine The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key is able to slide into. Over time over time, these “wafer” tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily resolve the issue however, replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it. Removal of the Steering Column Most modern cars no longer use a steering column lock cylinder. They use a key to start the car by pressing and rotating the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system works better and is much simpler than the lock-cylinder system of the past. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this part is damaged, it might be necessary to replace it to get the car started. This is a task that should be left to experts. Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower column of the steering with the help of a screwdriver. This will allow you access to the area surrounding the steering column. On the side of the steering column that is closest to the driver, you will find an Allen head bolt that holds the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Remove this bolt and place it away. Depending on the year of your vehicle, you may find three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic over the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside. To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the signal/wiper assembly. This will require the use of a special tool or you can ghetto do it with a piece of metal like a cold chisel. A locksmith can also use a bolt removal kit. If the key isn't able to be inserted into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either contact a locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to press the pin on the lock cylinder. A locksmith can employ a shear tool to take off the lock cylinder or they can use a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin down to take it off. They can re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition. Replacing the Ignition Cylinder The ignition cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and secures the key of your vehicle. The cylinder fits the key and “reads” the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. The cylinder wears down over time. It may be bent or broken. If this occurs, the cylinder may need to be replaced to allow your vehicle to begin. Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it inside the lock. You may be able use some WD-40 or graphite to fine-tune the cylinder, but this only works for a short period of time. Replace the ignition cylinder if have a replacement key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is seated in the steering column tube flange, and that it is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert. Once the cylinder is in and the key is turned to the ACC or RUN position. You should hear a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully set in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will have to follow the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key. Some experts suggest hiring a professional to replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is because it is often necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Furthermore, the replacement will likely require taking off and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. Because of this, it is a task best left to a professional mechanic. They will be able remove the steering wheel cover and install a new ignition locking cylinder inside your vehicle. They will also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles thanks to advancements in push-to-start and remote start systems, they're widespread on older cars. If you're having trouble getting your car started or the ignition switch is not working, it could be a defective ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace your vehicle's ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem. The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that is inserted into your car's ignition switch and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is the electrical component that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key. The ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates friction that keeps the key in position. However, over time the wafer tumblers may wear out. If the tumblers wear down, your car's key will not be able to slide into or turn the cylinder. The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. The key can also become stuck and difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible. It's easy to replace the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. A full repair manual for your car will help you get the job done quickly and correctly. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient for you. Test the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and permits it to rotate and start your vehicle. It is placed inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft number to authorize the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition can wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys. The most obvious indications that your car's lock-cylinder is about to fail are difficulties in starting it or locations where the key gets caught when you turn it. These issues usually indicate that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. In some cases you may notice an indicator light on your dashboard that indicates the possibility of a failure. As the cylinder ages it is likely to be damaged due to wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear out and break or damage and prevent the ignition of your car from working. The ignition may still work in certain situations if you move it around. However this could indicate that something is wrong. You can test your ignition cylinder to see whether it's worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine whether there's a voltage connection between the red wire of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any voltage or a switch, the module are likely to need to be replaced. ignition key replacement cost of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's recommended to have an expert mechanic do the task. It can be complicated due to the fact that you may need remove other parts, such as the steering column to get to the ignition cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to deactivate the airbag system, and then reprogram your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. This is usually handled by an agent. However, you could do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.