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How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder If your car's keys won't turn, it's time to replace the cylinder that controls the ignition. Contrary to the switch which is the electrical portion of the ignition system that supplies the power to the engine of your vehicle, the lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key can slide into. Over time, “wafers” can break or wear out. The use of WD-40 or graphite could temporarily fix the problem but replacement is the only solution that lasts. Removing the steering column The majority of modern cars do not use a steering column lock cylinder. They make use of keys to start the vehicle by pressing and rotating the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system functions better and is simpler than the old lock-cylinder method. However, there are some older cars that still utilize the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be required to replace it in order to get the car started. This isn't a task for the beginner and is best left to a professional. Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the trim panels that cover the lower and upper parts of the steering column. This will allow you access to the area around the steering column. There is an Allen head bolt on the side of the steering wheel closest to the driver. It holds the wiper/signal unit in position. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Depending on your car's year you might find three or four small screws with flat heads that keep the plastic on top of the turn-signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside. To access the lock cylinder you will have to remove the wiper/signal unit. You can use a special tool to remove it or ghetto it using an object of metal, such as a cold-chisel. Locksmiths are also able to use a shear bolt removal kit. If the key cannot be placed into the ignition switch, it's possible that the lock cylinder is stuck. You can either contact an locksmith or insert the key into the ignition switch, then move it to the ACC to press the lock cylinder's pin. Locksmiths can use the shear tool to remove the lock cylinder. They can use a torch to cut the pin and then shave the pin to take it off. They will be able to change the cylinder's key to match the keys you have and save you the cost of buying a new ignition cylinder. Replacing the Ignition Cylinder The ignition cylinder is the cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks your car's key. G28 Car Keys fits the key and “reads” anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder is susceptible to wear and tear over time. It could be bent or broken. If this happens, the cylinder will need to be replaced to allow your car to begin. The signs of a damaged or worn cylinder include problems when turning your key or with the ignition switch not advancing into the ACC or RUN position, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard. If you have a spare, you can try using it in the lock. You might be able to make the cylinder more pliable using graphite or WD-40, however this method is only effective for a certain amount of time. If you have a brand new key, replace the ignition cylinder and follow the steps above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder making sure that it is properly seated into the steering-column tube flange and aligned to the keyway on the shroud. Check the manual of your car or an expert to make sure the cylinder is correctly aligned. Once the cylinder is in then turn the key to the ACC or RUN position. Listen for a click that indicates that the ignition switch is fully installed inside the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, you will need to perform the anti-theft relearning procedure for the new ignition cylinder to program it to your key. Some experts recommend hiring a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is due to the fact that it is often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. The replacement may require removing the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. This is a job best left to an experienced mechanic. They'll be able remove the cover on the steering column and properly install a new ignition lock cylinder to your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key, and that it starts correctly when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder Although ignition lock cylinders 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 starting your car or the ignition switch is faulty it could be due to a defective ignition cylinder. Luckily, it's relatively easy to replace the ignition lock cylinder and fix the problem. The ignition cylinder is the mechanical portion 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 are two distinct components. The switch is an electrical component that connects to the computer in your car to transmit signals to turn on the engine when you turn the ignition key. Ignition lock cylinders feature pins that move upwards and downwards to let your key slide into and rotate in the cylinder. Every movement of the cylinder and key creates friction that keeps the key in its place. However, over time, the wafer tumblers can wear out. If the tumblers wear down, the key of your car won't be able slide into or rotate the cylinder. The first indication of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in the majority of cars. The key could also get stuck and be difficult to insert into or remove from the ignition lock cylinder. These are all signs that the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as soon as it is possible. Replacing your ignition cylinder is not difficult, but it's an undertaking that should be completed by a professional do-it-yourselfer if you're able to follow the correct procedure for your specific brand and model of vehicle. A complete repair manual for your vehicle will assist you in getting the task done quickly and accurately. If you're not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and location that's convenient for you. Testing the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder, also known as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that is fitted to your key in order to enable it to turn and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch that locks the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to permit key turning. The cylinder for the ignition lock can 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 main signs that a car's lock cylinder is about go bad include difficulty getting your car started or locating locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These are usually a sign that the cylinder must be replaced. In certain instances you may notice an indicator light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure. As the cylinder gets older it is likely to be damaged by corrosion or wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and wafer tumblers to wear out and break, preventing your car's ignition from unlocking. In some instances the ignition may work if you move it around, but this is a warning indicator that something is wrong. You can check the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or the key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, you could probe the module's red wire connection and the battery terminal of the ignition coil to determine if there's voltage. If you don't find any voltage, the module and switch will most likely need to be replaced. It is recommended to hire a professional mechanic to replace the ignition cylinder, as it could cost between $200 and $300. The process is complicated by the fact that you could require removing other components to access the cylinder that controls ignition, including the steering column. Depending on the model of your vehicle the replacement process may be accompanied by the need to disable the airbag system, and you'll need change the programming of your key to work with the new cylinder. This can be done at a dealer however, you can also learn how to do it yourself with the right tools and instructions.