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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 ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a mechanical tumbler that your key can slide into, and not the switch that is an electrical component of the ignition system. Over time, “wafers” can break or wear out. Utilizing WD-40 or graphite could temporarily solve the issue however replacement is the only way to fix it permanently. Eliminating the Steering Column Most modern cars no longer utilize a steering column lock cylinder. Instead, they use keys that can be used to start the vehicle by pressing and turning an on the dash panel. This newer method is simpler and more effective than the older lock cylinder method. However, there are some older vehicles that employ the traditional ignition lock cylinder. If this component fails, you might require replacing it in order to restart the vehicle. This is a job that should be handled by professionals. Remove the trim panels that cover the upper and lower steering columns with a screwdriver. This will give you access to the area surrounding the steering column. On the side of the column closest to the driver, you'll find an Allen head bolt that pins the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Unscrew this bolt and set it aside. Based on the year of your car, you might have three or four small flat head screws that hold the plastic cover on the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew these and set them aside. To access the lock cylinder, you'll have to remove the wiper/signal unit. This requires the use of a specific 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 a shear bolt removal kit. If the key can't be put into the ignition switch, it's likely that the lock cylinder is stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to depress the lock cylinder pin, or you can contact a locksmith for help. A locksmith can make use of a shear cylinder removal tool or cut the pin off of the lock cylinder with torch and then shave it down to remove it from the cylinder. They can re-key your ignition cylinder so that it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on the purchase of a new ignition. Replace the Ignition Cylinder The ignition Cylinder is the mechanical cylinder that houses and locks your car's key. The cylinder is fitted to the key and “reads” the anti-theft code to allow or denial of the starting of your vehicle. The cylinder can wear down over time. It may also break or become bent. In this case you'll need replace the cylinder to start your car. A worn or broken cylinder may cause issues when turning the key, or cause the ignition switch not moving into the ACC position, or RUN, or a warning lamp to show up on the dashboard. If you have an extra key, put it in the lock. You could try using graphite or WD-40 to adjust the cylinder's settings, but this only works for a brief period of period of time. Replace the ignition cylinder if have an alternative key. Follow the instructions above to install the new ignition cylinder. When installing the new ignition cylinder, ensure it is placed within the flange of the steering column tube and is aligned correctly with the keyway on the steering column shroud. Consult your car's manual or an expert to confirm that the cylinder is aligned correctly. Once the cylinder has been installed, turn the ignition key to ACC or RUN. Watch for a click which indicates the ignition switch is fully set inside the cylinder. If your car has an anti-theft system, you will be required to go through the anti-theft relearn procedure to program the new ignition cylinder into your key. Some experts suggest having a professional replace the ignition cylinder, since it is usually necessary to disable the airbag in the steering column in order to access the cylinder. Additionally, the replacement will likely require removing and replacing the ignition and steering wheel covers. This is why it's recommended to leave the job to a professional mechanic with experience. They'll be able to remove the cover for your steering wheel and replace it with a new ignition locking cylinder in your car. They'll also ensure the ignition lock cylinder is programmed using your key and that it begins to work properly when you insert it. Installing the Ignition Cylinder Even though cylinders for ignition locks have been less significant in modern vehicles due to remote start and push-tostart systems, older cars still use them. If your ignition switch or key is stuck or you're having trouble starting the vehicle it's possible that a damaged ignition lock cylinder could be the cause. It's relatively simple to replace your car's ignition lock cylinder, and then fix the issue. The ignition cylinder is a mechanical component of the system that slides into the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to rest of the engine. The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are two separate components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and sends signals to activate the motor when you turn the key. G28 Car Keys have pins that move up and down to let your key slide into and rotate inside the cylinder. Every movement of the key and cylinder creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place, but over time, these small movements could cause the wafer tumblers to wear down. When the tumblers have worn down, your car's key won't be able to slide into or rotate the cylinder. The first sign of trouble is usually a worn out ignition coil in most cars. The key may be stuck and make it difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are indicators that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as soon as possible. It's not a big deal to change the ignition cylinder, but you should only do it if are confident that you can follow the correct procedure for your vehicle's specific make and model. You can complete the job quickly and accurately with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you are not comfortable installing the ignition cylinder yourself it is possible to have one of our ASE-certified mobile mechanics complete the job for you at a time and place. Testing the Ignition Cylinder The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key and permits it to rotate and start your car. It's located inside the ignition switch which is locked to the ignition and reads the anti-theft code to authorize 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 difficult to insert and remove the key. The most obvious signs that a car's lock cylinder is about fail is difficulty starting your car or locating locations where the key is stuck when you try to turn it. These are usually an indication that the cylinder must be replaced. You might even see an alert light flashing on your dashboard, signalling an impending failure. As the cylinder ages it can be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This can cause the pins and tumblers to break down and break or damage and prevent the ignition of your car from working. The ignition might still work in some instances if you move it around. However it could indicate 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. You can test with a multimeter if there's voltage between the red wire connector of the module and the battery terminal of the ignition coil. If you do not find any or no voltage, then the module and switch are likely to require replacement. The replacement of the ignition cylinder typically costs $200 to $300, and it's generally recommended to hire a professional mechanic perform the task. It's not an easy task because you may have remove other components, such as the steering column to reach the ignition cylinder. Depending on the model of your vehicle, the replacement procedure can also require disabling the airbag system, and you'll have to reprogramme your key to work with the new cylinder. This is usually handled by a dealer. However, you can do it yourself if have the proper tools and the right instructions.