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 factors such as low or high temperatures.
If your ignition switch or key won't turn, this could be a sign that the cylinder of your lock is damaged and requires to be replaced. This is a job best left to an auto locksmith professional.
Take off the covers of the steering column.
Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical components that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to start a vehicle. They can fail or wear out in various ways, like keys being inserted too hard or not in the correct position. They may also fail due to corrosion and other causes. If your ignition cylinder isn't working, it's probably time to replace it. This is a simple job however, you'll need to remove the cover of the steering column and the airbag cover. The process is dangerous and can be difficult. It could also require special tools to the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder is found in the middle column, where the steering wheel is attached. The clip and two screws on the bottom of the cylinder hold it in the right position. It's important to remove these screws before you begin working on the cylinder, so that it doesn't fall off and become lost.
Once the screws are removed, you can remove the plastic retainers that are located at the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer clip into the top of the cover to hold it in the right place. You may need to pry off the cover to remove the lower tabs.
You can break these off by removing the screw that holds them and bending the tab outward. If the tab has been damaged completely you can replace it by using a piece of perforated metal strapping available at most hardware stores. You'll also need some U-clips to attach the new bottom "tab," and these can be purchased from any automotive parts store.
Once the plastic tabs have been removed and the airbag cover is pulled back, you will be able to access the hole for the ignition cylinder. You can unlock the ignition lock using the Allen wrench of 1/16-inch and push the cylinder retaining bolt. Then, you'll be able to pull the cylinder away. You may need to replace it with a specific cylinder to protect against theft.
Take off the Ignition Cylinder
Although many newer vehicles have been upgraded to push-to start systems, there's plenty of vehicles in the market that require an ignition lock cylinder. This cylindrical, mechanical component is housed inside the electrically powered component called the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and "reads" anti-theft coding inside the car key so that it can start.
If your car is showing signs of a failing ignition lock cylinder, it might be time to call an auto locksmith for assistance. A damaged ignition lock cylinder can cause numerous issues, such as an absence of power from the engine and difficulty in inserting or taking out the keys. Keys that are worn out can damage wafer tumblers, which let the ignition cylinder to turn. This can cause a blockage and stops the vehicle from getting started.
Depending on the brand and model of your vehicle The ignition cover can be attached using screws or clips. By using a screwdriver, loosen up the screw, then remove the cover to reveal the ignition lock cylinder. It is typically a steel cylindrical device about the size of a quarter.
To remove the cylinder you'll have to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Make use of a drill that's slightly larger than the key slot, and drill directly into the cylinder until it breaks free. Then, you'll be able to pull the cylinder out and replace it with a replacement.
You'll need to check your service manual for specific steps to remove the ignition cylinder. After you have the cylinder removed, you can put in the new ignition switch.
Before you can do this you'll need to replace the covers for the steering column. Two screws will also be needed to secure the lock assembly in place. After that, installing your new ignition cylinder will be fairly straightforward.
Remove the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and cylinder are separate parts of the electrical system in your vehicle. Although they appear similar, you can repair or replace them in a separate. The switch is the electronic component that supplies power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into. You can tell if your ignition cylinder has failed by its inability turn your key.
When the cylinder is damaged, the pins in the tumbler could wear out, making it hard or impossible to pull or insert your key. If you notice your key is damaged and won't turn it is recommended to have the wafers in it replaced or smoothed by professional locksmiths.
Based on the make of your vehicle, there may be an anchor bolt or screw that is used to secure the switch, and removing this will expose the cylinder that controls the ignition. Check the manual of your vehicle before making the attempt at home. It is a risk and cause damage to the steering column or the plastic covers. In addition, the switch is bundled with airbags' wires and any interference with this could result in serious injury.
To remove the ignition cylinder, you'll need to use an instrument to loosen it. You can also use pliers to separate it from the assembly however this is usually more difficult than using the screwdriver. If van ignition repair becomes loose, you can replace it with a brand new one at your local auto shop.
You'll need all the wires connected to the electrical connection on the steering column to verify its proper operation. It's best to disconnect the battery first, then disconnect the key from the ignition and then start the engine. If the ignition is working then you can connect the battery and test it again. If the vehicle still won't turn on, you'll require having the immobilizer reset. This can be done by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be handled by an expert.
Reinstall the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car transmits a signal to the vehicle's engine that it's time for it to start. The key is inserted into a lock cylinder to start the process, but the pins and wafers inside the cylinder can wear down over time. It may be difficult or impossible to start your vehicle in the event that the cylinder is stuck.
If your key doesn't turn on the ignition, it is likely that it's time to get replaced. A skilled locksmith can replace the cylinder with a new one, meaning your new key will work with the original ignition switch, and will be capable of triggering the engine's startup signal.
To take off the lock to remove the lock, press down on the release pin at the bottom of your assembly and remove the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder will not slide out, you can try pressing in the release pin, or use a small anti rotation button underneath the face of cylinder. You could also try pushing down on the cylinder using your key while rotating it to the ACC or accessory position to try and push it out.
Once you've removed your old cylinder, put in the new one and then turn on the vehicle to make sure whether it's functioning. If it is it's working, you can connect any trim pieces that you removed to access the cylinder. Then, you can apply an anti-theft relearning procedure to connect your new keys to the vehicle.
While the ignition cylinder lock isn't as crucial to the functionality of your car as it was in the past, there are still many situations where you may require replacing it. Talk to a professional such as an automotive dealer or locksmith to ensure the task is done without damaging the steering column's or other parts of your vehicle. It's also crucial to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is properly coded to ensure that your vehicle can recognize it as an authentic key. In the majority of cases this, it will require a dealer or a professional to do the relearn.