Drilling out an ignition lock cylinder may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be done relatively easily. In this article, we will answer some of the most common questions about drilling out an ignition lock cylinder, as well as provide helpful tips to make the process go as smoothly as possible. So if you’re looking for information on how to drill out an ignition lock cylinder, you’ve come to the right place!
What Is An Ignition Lock Cylinder?
If the ignition lock cylinder becomes damaged or fails, it can prevent the vehicle from starting. In some cases, it may be possible to repair the ignition lock cylinder. However, in other cases, it may be necessary to drill out the old ignition lock cylinder and replace it with a new one. [1]
When Should You Drill Out An Ignition Lock Cylinder?
There are several reasons why you might need to drill out an ignition lock cylinder. If you have lose your keys and can’t get a replacement, if the key is broken and stuck in the cylinder, or if the cylinder is damaged and won’t turn, you’ll need to drill it out.
How To Drill Out Ignition Lock Cylinder: The Process
Fit Test
The first step is to make sure that the bit you are using will fit in the space available. This is critical, as using a bit that is too large will damage both the cylinder and the drill. A good rule of thumb is to use a bit that is no more than half the width of the lock cylinder. [1]
Lock-In
Most ignition lock cylinders have a pin tumbler lock. This type of lock is opened with a key that has notches or pins that line up with the wards in the keyway and allow the plug to rotate. The pin tumblers are spring-loaded so that when the correct key is inserted, they align perfectly with the shear line and allow the plug to rotate freely. If even one pin isn’t aligned correctly, it will bind on the shear line and prevent rotation. [1]
Start the Drill
Start the drill at a low speed and gradually increase the speed as you go. Keep the drill bit perpendicular to the surface of the cylinder. If you need to, apply some pressure to keep the drill bit in place.
You’ll want to use a carbide-tipped or titanium-coated drill bit for this project. These types of bits will stay sharp longer and won’t overheat as easily as other types of bits.
If your lock is made out of brass, an ordinary steel drill bit will probably suffice. However, if your lock is made out of hardened steel, you’ll need a cobalt or carbide-tipped drill bit. [1]
Drill slowly at first, then speed up as the bit starts to bite into the metal.
End of the Road
After drilling out the lock, you’ll need to replace it with a new one. This is a relatively easy process, but you’ll need to take your car to a professional mechanic to have it done. They will be able to properly install the new lock and make sure that it functions correctly.
If you’ve followed these steps and are still having trouble getting your car started, don’t hesitate to contact a tow truck or locksmith for assistance. Getting stranded on the side of the road is never fun, but with a little help, you’ll be back on your way in no time. [1]
How To Drill Out Ignition Lock Cylinder If The Key Won’t Turn
Disconnect The Battery
The first thing you need to do is disconnect the battery. This will prevent any electrical damage to your vehicle while you’re working on it. Once the battery is disconnected, locate the ignition lock cylinder. It’s usually located on the steering column, just above the ignition switch. [1]
Remove Steering Wheel
The first step is to remove the steering wheel. This will give you better access to the ignition lock cylinder. To do this, you will need a steering wheel puller. You can find these at most auto parts stores.
Once you have the steering wheel puller, attach it to the steering wheel according to the instructions. Then, use a ratchet or impact wrench to remove the nut that holds the steering wheel in place. With the nut removed, you should be able to pull the steering wheel off. [1]
Remove Indicator Switches And The Wipers
Before you can start to drill out the ignition lock cylinder, you need to remove some of the components that are in the way. The first thing you need to do is disconnect the battery. This will ensure that no electrical current is running through the system while you’re working. Next, remove the indicator switches and the wipers from the steering column. These components can get in the way and make it difficult to drill out the ignition lock cylinder. [1]
Remove Steering Column Sleeve
To remove the sleeve, you’ll need a few basic tools: a flathead screwdriver, a Phillips head screwdriver, and a hammer. Start by disconnecting the battery. Then, using the flathead screwdriver, pry off the plastic cover on the steering column. Underneath this cover, you will find two screws that hold the sleeve in place. Remove these screws with the Phillips head screwdriver and set them aside. With the screws removed, you should be able to pull the sleeve off of the steering column. [1]
Disconnect The Connections To The Ignition Switch
Assuming that you have your replacement ignition switch handy, the first thing you’ll need to do is disconnect the old one. There are four wires that connect to the back of the ignition switch, and they’re all different colors. You’ll need a wrench to loosen the two screws that hold these wires in place on the back of the switch. Do this for all four wires, and then pull the old ignition switch out of its housing. [1]
Remove Mounting Bolts
The next step is to remove the mounting bolts. These will be located on the side of the ignition lock cylinder. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver for this part. Once the bolts are removed, you can pull out the ignition lock cylinder.
There are two types of ignition lock cylinders: those with a retaining clip and those without. If your ignition lock cylinder has a retaining clip, you will need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry it off before you can remove the cylinder. [1]
Check The Mounting Bolts
The first thing you need to do is check the mounting bolts. If they are loose, then you need to tighten them. If they are tight, then you need to remove them. Once the bolts are removed, you can remove the cylinder. [1]
Lock The Key Cylinder
If your car has a steering wheel lock, you will also need to remove this before you can remove the key cylinder. To do this, simply insert your key into the steering wheel lock and turn it until it comes loose. You should then be able to pull out the steering wheel lock along with the key cylinder. [1]
Take Out The Switch
Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to get to work. Begin by removing the switch from the vehicle. This will give you better access to the cylinder and make drilling it out much easier.
To remove the switch, first disconnect the battery. This will prevent any electrical shorts while you’re working. Next, locate the screws that hold the switch in place and remove them. The Switch can now be pulled out of the dash.
With the switch removed, you should be able to see the ignition lock cylinder. It is usually located just behind the switch. If your vehicle has a steering column mounted ignition, thenthe cylinder will be on top of the column. [1]
Replace The Lock Cylinder
If you’ve lost the key to your car and can’t get a replacement, you’ll need to drill out the lock cylinder. This can be done at home with a few simple tools, but it’s important to take your time and be careful not to damage the ignition switch. With a little patience, you can have your car up and running in no time.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
First, remove the screws that hold the steering column cover in place. You may need a screwdriver or a socket wrench to do this. Once the cover is off, locate the two Phillips head screws that hold the lock cylinder in place. Remove these screws and pull out the lock cylinder.
Now, take a look at the new lock cylinder. You’ll notice that it has two small pins on the side. These pins need to be aligned with the holes in the ignition switch before you can insert the new cylinder.
To do this, insert a small screwdriver or nail into the hole on one side of the cylinder and push the pin until it’s flush with the side of the cylinder. Repeat this on the other side. Once both pins are flush, you can insert the new cylinder into place and replace the screws.
Be sure to test your work before putting everything back together. Turn the key to make sure it works smoothly and that there’s no resistance when turning it. If everything seems to be working properly, reassemble the steering column and enjoy your newly working ignition. [1]
How to remove ignition lock cylinder without key dodge
Disconnect the Battery
The first thing you need to do is disconnect the battery. This will prevent any electrical damage from occurring while you’re working. You can do this by removing the negative cable from the battery terminal. [2]
Once the battery is disconnected, you’ll need to remove the steering wheel.
Remove the Steering Wheel
The first step is to remove the steering wheel. This will give you access to the lock cylinder. To remove the steering wheel, you will need a steering wheel puller. You can find these at most auto parts stores.
Once you have the steering wheel puller, follow these instructions:
- Place the jaws of the puller over the top of the steering wheel.
- Tighten the jaws until they are snug against the steering wheel.
- Turn the handle of the puller clockwise until the steering wheel pops off. [2]
Remove the Sleeve
The first step is to remove the sleeve. The best way to do this is with a pair of pliers. Simply grip the sleeve and pull it off. If the sleeve is stuck, you may need to use a screwdriver or other tool to pry it off. [2]
Once the sleeve is removed, you will be able to see the cylinder itself.
Remove the Ignition Switch
Before you can drill out the ignition lock cylinder, you need to remove the ignition switch. This is usually a simple process, but it will vary depending on your vehicle.
First, locate the screws that hold the ignition switch in place. In most vehicles, there will be two screws holding the ignition switch in place.
Once you have located the screws, use a screwdriver to remove them. Be sure to keep track of which screw goes where, as they are often different sizes.
Once the screws are removed, gently pull on the ignition switch until it comes loose from the dash. You may need to wiggle it a bit to get it free. [2]
Take out the Core
Now that you have your drill bit, it’s time to get started. The first thing you need to do is take out the core of the ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by using a small screwdriver or a paperclip. Once the core is removed, you will need to insert the drill bit into the hole where the core was located.
Be sure to go slowly and carefully when drilling, as you don’t want to damage any of the surrounding parts. It may take a few tries before you get the hang of it, but eventually you’ll be able to drill through the entire ignition lock cylinder.
Once you’ve drilled through the cylinder, remove the drill bit and set it aside. You should now be able to remove the entire ignition lock cylinder from the vehicle. [2]
Safety precautions when drilling the ignition switch cylinder.
When you are ready to start drilling the ignition switch cylinder, there are a few safety precautions that you need to take. First, make sure that the area around the cylinder is clear. You don’t want anything to get in the way of the drill bit. Second, wear eye protection. The last thing you want is for a piece of metal to fly into your eye while you’re working. Finally, be careful not to damage the surrounding area.
With those safety concerns out of the way, let’s get started on how to drill out an ignition lock cylinder!
FAQ
Why would a key get jammed in the ignition?
There are a few reasons why a key might get jammed in the ignition. One reason is that the pins in the cylinder may be worn down and no longer line up correctly with the cuts on the key. Another reason could be that there is debris or rust preventing the key from turning smoothly.
What causes the ignition to lock up?
The most common reason for an ignition lock cylinder to freeze up is because the key has become worn out. Over time, the teeth on the key will wear down and eventually they will no longer be able to engage with the tumblers in the lock. Another common cause of an ignition lock cylinder failure is dirt and debris build up. This can happen if you live in a dusty area or if your car is constantly exposed to road grime. Eventually, enough dirt and debris will accumulate in the lock cylinder and prevent it from turning.
Useful Video: How to Remove and Replace an Ignition Lock Cylinder
Conclusion
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to drill out your ignition lock cylinder, don’t panic. Just follow the steps outlined in this guide and you’ll be back on the road in no time.
Still have questions? Feel free to leave a comment below and we’ll do our best to help you out. Thanks for reading!
References
- https://caffemotor.com/how-to-drill-out-ignition-lock-cylinder-the-ultimate-guide/
- https://machinehandyman.com/how-to-drill-out-ignition-lock-cylinder/