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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder If your car's key isn't turning, it's time to change the ignition lock cylinder. Unlike the switch that is the electrical part of the ignition system that sends energy to the engine of your car, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler that your key slides into. Over time, “wafers” can break or become worn out. Using WD-40 or graphite may temporarily resolve the issue but replacement is the only permanent solution. Removal of the Steering Column Most modern cars no longer use a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use keys that can be used to start the car by pressing and turning the switch on the dash panel. This newer method is simpler and more efficient than the older lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. If this part fails, it could be necessary to replace it to start the car. This is not a job for the novice and should be left to a professional. Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners holding the trim panels covering the lower and upper steering column. This allows you to access the area around your steering column. There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Based on the year of your car you might find three or four small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic that covers the turn signal switch in place. Take these screws off and put them aside. To access the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This requires the use of a specially designed tool, or you could perform the task using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths are also able to use the shear bolt removal kit. If you can't insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. Try inserting the key and moving it to the ACC position to release the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can contact a locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or they can cut the pin off of the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it to remove it from the assembly. They can re-key the ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition. Replace the Ignition Cylinder The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical component which houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and “reads” the anti-theft code to permit or block the start of your vehicle. As time passes the cylinder wears out. It could also be bent or broken. In this case, you will need to replace the cylinder in order to get your car running. Signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems with turning your key, or the ignition switch not moving into the ACC or RUN position, or with 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 limited period of time. Replace the ignition cylinder if you have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, make sure it is properly installed within the steering column tube flange and is aligned correctly with the keyway on the shroud for the steering column. Check the manual of your car or an expert to make sure the cylinder is correctly aligned. After the cylinder has been installed then turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which indicates the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle has an anti-theft device, you will need to follow the anti-theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key. Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder since it is typically required to deactivate the airbag in the steering column to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement is likely to involve removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able to take off the steering column cover and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder in your vehicle. They will also be able ensure that the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed using your key, and that it will start correctly when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less essential in modern vehicles because of advancements in remote start and push-tostart systems, they are still widespread on older cars. If you're having trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is faulty, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. It's a good thing that it's fairly easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder and repair the problem. The ignition cylinder is a mechanical part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is an electronic component that connects to the computer in your car to send signals to start the engine when you turn the ignition key. Ignition lock cylinders have pins that move up and down to allow the key to slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction, which keeps the key in its place. However, as time passes, the wafer tumblers can wear out. When the tumblers are worn down the key will not be able to slide into the cylinder, or turn it. The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. However, the key can also begin to stick and become difficult to remove or insert from the cylinder. These are indications that you should replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible. It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if you are certain that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. You can complete the job quickly and efficiently by using a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself, have one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics complete the repair for you at a time and place that's convenient for you. Test the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder, is a mechanical component that fits your key in order to enable it to turn and start your vehicle. It is mounted inside the ignition switch which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to allow the key to turn. car ignition barrel replacement that locks the ignition may wear out and eventually fail. This can cause problems with the power of your vehicle or make it difficult to remove and insert keys. The most obvious indicators that a lock cylinder is about be damaged is having trouble starting your car or locating places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These issues are typically a sign that the cylinder is in need of be replaced. In some cases you may notice an alert light on your dashboard, which signals an imminent failure. As the cylinder age, it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers made of wafer to wear out, cause damage or even break, which can make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. The ignition might still work in certain situations if you move it around. However this could indicate something is wrong. You can test your ignition cylinder to determine whether it's worn-out or if the key is bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to check whether there is a voltage difference between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement. It's best to hire an expert mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it could cost between $200 and $300. The process is complicated due to the fact that you might have to take other parts to access the cylinder for ignition, such as the steering column. Depending on your vehicle the procedure for replacing it may also require disabling the airbag system, and you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This process is usually done by an authorized dealer however, you can learn how to do it yourself by using the appropriate tools and directions.