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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder If your car's key will not turn, it's time change the ignition lock cylinder. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical portion of the ignition system, which sends energy to the engine of your car the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key is able to slide into. Over time, “wafers” can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite can temporarily solve the problem but replacing the tumblers is the only option. Eliminating the Steering Column Modern cars do not use steering column locks. Instead, they utilize a key that is used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This newer system is much simpler and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Certain older vehicles still use the old lock cylinder. If this part fails, it may be required to replace it in order to allow the car to start. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to a professional. Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower columns of the steering using the help of a screwdriver. This will allow access to the area around the steering column. You will find an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. This bolt holds the unit for the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you may have three or four small screws with a flat head that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Remove these screws and set them aside. To get to the lock cylinder, you'll have to take off the wiper/signal unit. You can either make use of a specific tool to remove it or ghetto it using the help of a piece of metal, for example a cold-chisel. Locksmiths will also be capable of using a shear bolt removal kit. If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can 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 use a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin from the lock cylinder using torch and then shave it to take it off the lock. They can re-key the ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on a new ignition. Replace the Ignition Cylinder The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical device that houses and locks the key of your car. The cylinder “reads” the anti-theft code and then fits your key to turn on or off your car. The cylinder can wear down over time. It may also break or get bent. If this happens, the cylinder will require replacement in order for your car to begin. The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not moving to the ACC or RUN position, or with a warning light appearing on the dash. If you have an extra, use it in the lock. You may be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40. However, this technique only works for a certain amount of time. Replace the ignition cylinder if have a replacement key. Follow the steps above to install the new ignition cylinder. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure that it is properly fitted into the steering-column tube flange, and aligned with the keyway on the shroud. If you're not sure about the proper alignment of the cylinder, consult your car's repair manual or an automotive expert. After the cylinder is installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. You should hear a click confirm that the ignition switch is fully seated in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you will have to perform the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder into your key. Some experts suggest that you have a professional replace the cylinder in your ignition. This is due to the fact that it's usually necessary to deactivate the airbag on the steering column in order to get to the cylinder. The replacement process will likely require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. Because of this, it is a job that should be left to an experienced mechanic. ignition key replacement cost will be able remove the steering wheel cover and install a brand new ignition locking cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able ensure the ignition lock cylinder has been programmed with your key and begins to work properly when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder Although cylinders for ignition locks are becoming less essential in modern vehicles due to advances 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 faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder of the ignition lock. The ignition cylinder is the mechanical part of the system that is inserted into the ignition switch in your car and provides 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. The pins on the cylinders of ignition locks move up and down, permitting your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in place. However, as time passes the wafer tumblers may wear out. If the tumblers wear down, your car's key won't be able slide into or rotate the cylinder. The first indication of trouble is usually a worn 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 all signs that your ignition lock cylinder should be replaced as soon as possible. Replacing the ignition cylinder on your vehicle isn't difficult, but it is something that should be handled by a skilled do-it-yourselfer only if you're confident enough to follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your car can help you get the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder on your own, you can have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics do the work for you at a convenient time and location. Test the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical device that fits your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It's located inside the ignition switch, which locks the ignition and reads anti-theft codes to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition is susceptible to wear and may eventually fail, causing issues powering your vehicle or making it hard to remove and insert the key. The most obvious signs that a car's lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your car or locating positions where the key gets stuck when you attempt to turn it. These problems are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. In certain instances, you might even notice an alert light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure. As the cylinder age it may be damaged by corrosion or wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to wear down and break or damage, preventing the ignition of your car from unlocking. The ignition could still function in some instances when you move it around. However this could indicate something is wrong. You can test the cylinder of your ignition to determine whether it's worn-out or if the key has been bent or damaged. You can use a multimeter to determine if there's voltage between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you are unable to detect any voltage or a switch, the module will likely need to be replaced. The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's recommended to have an expert mechanic do the job. The process is complicated due to the fact that you might require removing other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Based on the vehicle you have the procedure for replacing it may also require you to disable the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at the dealership, but you can learn how to do it yourself using the appropriate tools and directions.