Ways to Remove an Ignition Cylinder Without a Key

Ways to Remove an Ignition Cylinder Without a Key

An ignition cylinder is one of the main components of your vehicle’s starter system. When the ignition cylinder stops working, you’ll need to remove and replace it. Removing an ignition cylinder is easy when you have a key. But when you lose your key or it gets damaged, you’ll have to get certain tools and follow a specific procedure to remove the ignition cylinder.

In this article, we will explain how to remove an ignition cylinder without a key.

Let’s get to it.

Step 1: Assemble The Required Tools

The tools you'll require to successfully remove the ignition lock include a drill bit, power drill, flathead screwdriver, and a straightened paper clip.

Step 2: Disconnect Car Battery

This step is necessary to prevent being electrocuted.

Step 3: Remove The Steering Wheel

This will help you access the ignition cylinder easier. Take out the screws to remove the lower and upper cover from the steering wheel column and pull the center cover to lift the wheel. Next, disconnect the horn wires and pull the steering wheel from its shaft. You’ll need to be more careful when removing the steering wheel to avoid damaging some of the fragile components.

Step 4: Remove Indicator and Wipers Switches

Locate these switches and remove them from the steering wheel.

Step 5: Remove Sleeves from Steering Column

Sleeves are visible from the steering wheel column. Take them out so that you can access the ignition switch’s mounting screws. Unscrew them and remove the ignition from its position. Next, disconnect the wires on the rear side of the ignition switch. You’ll also need to loosen tabs to be able to pull out the switch.

Step 6: Remove Mounting Bolts

Use a flathead screwdriver to unscrew the mounting bolts or screws on the ignition switch. Once you’ve taken out the mounting bolts, you’ll be able to access the housing and assembly that contains the ignition cylinder. Next, insert a pin into a pinhole to trigger the cylinder’s release mechanism.

Step 7: Insert a Straightened Paper Clip Into The Lock Cylinder Slot and Turn to The Left.

This action locks the cylinder to stop the ignition from starting. Next, insert a flathead screwdriver into the cylinder and move it to the right as much as possible. When it reaches its limit, pull the paper clip to the right and slide the ignition cylinder from its place.

There you have it. These are the simple steps you’ll need to follow to remove an ignition cylinder without a key. As we’ve already mentioned, it’s important to be very careful when removing any parts of the ignition cylinder.

If you don't have experience removing ignition cylinders, it's advisable to call a nearby locksmith to help you. A locksmith will come in with the right tools and experience and get the job done in an efficient manner.

Ignition Cylinder Removal at QuickPro Locksmith

At QuickPro Locksmith, we can help you with ignition cylinder removal and many other locksmith services.

Visit our website today to learn more about our services.