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Ignition Cylinder Lock Repair The ignition cylinder lock allows the key to be turned, allowing the car to start. It works through springs and chambers that could be damaged by environmental factors like low or high temperatures. If your ignition switch, key or both will not turn, it could be an indication that the lock's cylinder needs to be replaced. It is best to delegate the job to an expert automotive locksmith. Remove the steering column covers Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical components that allow a key inserted into the ignition switch to be turned to turn off an automobile. They are prone to be damaged and fail due to a number of reasons, for instance when the key is put in too forcefully or placed in the wrong place. They can also fail due to corrosion, and other reasons. If your ignition cylinder isn't turning it's time to replace it. This is a straightforward task but you'll have to take off the steering column cover and the airbag cover. The process is risky and could be difficult. It may also require special tools to the replacement cylinder. The ignition cylinder can be found in the middle column where the steering wheel is attached. The clip and two screws at the bottom of the cylinder hold it in place. Remove these screws before you start working on the cylinder to stop it from falling off and getting lost. Once the screws are removed, you can remove the plastic retainers off the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer clips into the top cover to hold it in place. You may need to pry the cover from the steering wheel to remove the tabs on the lower part of the plastic. These can be broken off by taking out one of the retaining screws, and then bending the tab outward a bit. If the tab has broken off completely it can be replaced with a piece perforated metal strapping that's found at a majority of hardware stores. You'll need U-clips for attaching the new “tab” at the bottom. They can be bought from any automotive parts shop. Once the plastic tabs have been removed and the airbag cover has been pulled back, you can access the hole for the ignition cylinder. With the 1/16-inch allen wrench to open the ignition lock and push it onto the pin that holds the cylinder. You can then remove the cylinder. You may need to replace it with a special cylinder for an anti-theft system. Take off the Ignition Cylinder While many modern vehicles have been upgraded to push-to start systems, there's a good number of cars on the road that require an ignition lock cylinder. This mechanical cylinder is contained within the electrically powered component known as the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and “reads” anti-theft coding within the car key to allow it to start. If your vehicle is showing signs of a failing ignition lock cylinder, it may be time to call an auto locksmith for assistance. A faulty cylinder can cause numerous issues, including absence of power from the engine, as well as issues with inserting and taking out the key. Worn keys can damage wafer tumblers, which allow the cylinder to turn. This can cause a jam and prevents the vehicle from starting. Based on the make and model of your car the ignition cover could be attached by a clip or screw. By using a screwdriver, loosen up the screw, then lift the cover to reveal the ignition lock cylinder. It's usually a metal cylinder roughly the size of one quarter. To take the cylinder off, you'll need to drill out the pin that holds it in place. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the slot that holds the key and drill through it until the cylinder snaps free. Then, you'll be able to pull the cylinder out and replace it with a replacement. You'll need to refer to your service manual for exact steps to remove the ignition cylinder. Once the cylinder has been removed, you can then 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 fix two screws on top of the lock assembly to secure it. After you've done that, installing your new ignition cylinder shouldn't be too difficult. Take off the Ignition Switch The ignition cylinder lock and switch are two distinct parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they appear like they are, they are able to be repaired or replaced in a different manner from one another. The switch is the part that provides power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into. In general, you can tell the ignition cylinder is not working properly because it is unable to turn the key. When the cylinder fails, the pins inside the tumbler may wear out which makes it difficult or impossible to insert or remove your key. If you notice your key is damaged and won't turn anymore it is recommended to get the wafers replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith. Based on the model of your car, there may be an anchor bolt or screw that secures the switch and removing it will expose the cylinder of ignition. It's important to consult the service manual of your vehicle prior to trying this at home, since it can be hazardous and damage the steering column and plastic covers. The switch is also linked with the airbag wiring. If you mess with it, it could cause serious injury. To remove the ignition cylinder, you'll need to use a drill to loosen it. It is also possible to use pliers, but it can be more difficult. Once the ignition cylinder has been removed, you can buy an alternative one at your local auto shop. After installing the new ignition cylinder you'll need to reconnect all of the wires to the electrical connection inside the steering column and test it to ensure that it functions properly. It's generally easier to disconnect the battery, and then remove the ignition key and then start the vehicle. When the ignition is functioning it's time to reconnect the battery and test it again. If the vehicle still won't turn on, you'll require that your immobilizer reset. This can be accomplished by a dealer or automotive service technician. This is a complex procedure that should be left to an expert. Install the Ignition Cylinder The ignition switch in your car sends a signal to the vehicle's engine that it's time to start up. The key inserts into a lock cylinder to trigger this process, but the pins and wafers inside the cylinder may wear out over time. It may be difficult or impossible to start your car when the cylinder gets stuck. If key ignition replacement isn't turning on the ignition, it is likely that it needs to be replaced. Locksmiths can replace the cylinder in your ignition with a replacement to ensure that your key will still work with your existing ignition switch. To remove the old lock you need to press the release pin located at the bottom of your assembly and remove the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder doesn't slide out, try pushing in on the release pin again or using a screwdriver to depress a small anti-rotation button beneath the cylinder's surface. You could also try pushing down on the cylinder with your key while rotating it to the ACC or accessory position to see if you can push it out. Once you've removed the old cylinder, install your new one and turn on the vehicle to make sure whether it's functioning. If it's working, connect the trim pieces that you removed to access the cylinder. After that, you can begin a relearning procedure to connect the new keys. While the ignition cylinder lock isn't as essential to your car's functionality anymore as it used to be but there are still scenarios where you'll require replacing it. It is essential to talk to an expert, like an automotive locksmith or a car dealership, to ensure that the job is done correctly and without causing harm to the steering column's plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It is also essential to ensure that the new ignition cylinder is correctly coded to ensure that your vehicle recognizes it as a genuine key. In the majority of cases this will require a dealer or other professional to carry out the relearn.