The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical part where the ignition key is inserted in order to start a vehicle. This part is mounted inside of the ignition switch. The electrical component that locks the ignition and also “reads” anti-theft coding in the key to allow the vehicle to start. Worn keys can damage “wafer” tumblers or pins inside of the lock cylinder car, preventing the key from turning and making it so that the ignition won’t unlock. The wafers themselves can also wear down (in some cases so much so that the key can even be removed while the engine is running), break or stick in a raised position, preventing the key from rotating properly. If it is difficult to turn the ignition lock cylinder car or the key can’t easily be inserted or pulled out, the key may be bent or worn. Having a new master key made by a dealer or a car locksmith—not a duplicate that is based on the worn-out key—may be what you need. If you’re looking for “locksmith supplies near me” in the Miami area, call Locksmith Keyless today.

How To Tell When Your Ignition Lock Cylinder Has A Problem

Typically, ignition lock cylinders can last several years before problems develop, and they will likely be less of an issue in the future since more vehicles are now equipped with smart keys and push-button starts that get rid of the need for a conventional key. Here are some ways to tell if you need to look replacement lock cylinder:

• Problems powering on the vehicle—One of the first signs of a potential ignition lock cylinder problem is powering the vehicle on. Every time the vehicle starts, the ignition lock cylinder has to be turned, which means that it eventually may begin to wear out and stop functioning correctly when the key is inserted. This may result in problems with certain positions of the key. Certain positions may not work correctly or may require jostling of the keys before they work. The problem will typically get worse before the unit eventually fails completely.
• The car doesn’t start—Another sign is when the car itself won’t start. The ignition lock cylinder connects to the electronic ignition switch which powers on and starts the vehicle. If the ignition lock cylinder wears out or breaks, it can stop the vehicle from starting when the key is inserted and turned. A no-start condition can also be due to a wide variety of other problems, so having the vehicle properly diagnosed is highly recommended. You will probably need a locks cylinder replacement.

When To Call A Car Locksmith

• Hard to insert and remove the key—Having problems inserting and removing the key may mean a potential problem with the ignition lock cylinder. Both the cylinder and key will eventually start to wear and cause issues with the operation of the cylinder. A worn cylinder can jam or bind when the key is inserted, removed, or turned, which can interfere with powering on and starting the vehicle. The sooner you get your ignition lock cylinder replacement the better for you.

Contact Us Today

If you are looking for a ignition lock cylinder replacement or a locksmith to do the job please contact us.

If you’re looking for “locksmith supplies near me” in Miami, call car locksmith Locksmith Keyless today.