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This Is How Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder Will Look In 10 Years Time
How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's key won't turn or turn, it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key slides into, in contrast to the switch that is an electrical part of the ignition system.

Over time, these "wafer" tumblers can wear out or break. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily solve the problem however, replacing the tumblers is the only solution.

Removing the Steering Column

Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, they use keys that are used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This newer system works much better and is much simpler than the older lock-cylinder method. However, there are older cars that still employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, it may be required to replace it to get the car started. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to an experienced professional.

Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with a screwdriver. This will allow you to access the area around your steering column.

On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll see an Allen head bolt that holds the wiper/signal assembly in place. Remove the bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, it could have 3 or 4 small screws with a flat head that secure the plastic cover that covers the turn signal switch. Take these screws off and put them aside.

To access the lock cylinder you will have to take off the wiper/signal unit. You can either make use of a specific tool to do this or ghetto it using a piece metal, like a cold-chisel. Locksmiths can also make use of a bolt removal kit.

If the key isn't able to be put into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can call an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch and move it to the ACC to release the lock cylinder's pin.

A locksmith can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder or they can make use of a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin down to take it off. They will be able to re-key the cylinder to match your existing keys and will save you the cost of a new ignition cylinder.

Replace the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks the key to your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to start or stop your car. As time passes, the cylinder can wear out. It could be bent or broken. In this situation you'll need to replace the cylinder in order to start your car.


Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder are issues with turning your key, or 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 graphite or WD-40 to fine-tune the cylinder, however, this is only for a short period of time.

Replace the ignition cylinder when you have a replacement key. Follow G28 Car Keys to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure that it is placed in the flange of the steering column tube, and that it is properly aligned with the keyway on the shroud of the steering column. Refer to the car's manual or an expert to make sure the cylinder is correctly aligned.

After the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click to confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated into the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft device, you'll have to perform the anti theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder into your key.

Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order for access to the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and ignition covers. This is why you should leave the job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and install a new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able to verify that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and starts properly when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

Although ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles due to advancements in remote start and push-to-start systems, they're prevalent on older vehicles. If you're having difficulty starting your car or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's relatively simple to replace the ignition lock cylinder and fix the issue.

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that slides into the ignition switch in your car and supplies power to the rest of the engine. While many people confuse the phrase "ignition switch" with the ignition cylinder, they're two distinct components. The switch is an electrical component that connects with your car's computer system to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key.

Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow your key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, over time, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or turn the cylinder.

A worn-out ignition cylinder is typically the first sign of trouble in the majority of vehicles. The key may be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are all indications that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Replacing your ignition cylinder isn't difficult, but it is an undertaking that should be done by a trained DIYer only if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your particular make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your car will assist you in getting the job done efficiently and correctly. If you're not confident in installing the ignition cylinder on your own, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics do the repair for you at a time and place that's convenient for you.

Testing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key and allows it to rotate and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit key turning. The ignition lock cylinder may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause issues with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to insert and remove keys.

The most common signs that a car's lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating locations where the key is stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard to signal the possibility of a failure.

As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear down, cause damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. In certain instances, the ignition will still function if you jerk it in different directions however this is a warning indication that something is wrong.

You can check the cylinder's ignition to see whether it's worn out, or if the key has been bent or damaged. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to back-probe the module's red connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to see if there is voltage. If you don't find any voltage then the switch and module will likely need to be replaced.

It's best to hire a professional mechanic to repair the ignition cylinder as it could cost between $200 and $300. It's not easy due to the fact that you may need to remove other components such as the steering column, in order to get to the ignition cylinder. The replacement procedure may also require you to turn off the airbag system and reprogramme your key to work with the new ignition cylinder. It's usually done by an authorized dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the right tools and the right instructions.

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