An ignition according to the English Dictionary, is the receptacle for a key used to start the engine in a car. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, ignition is the device that is used to ignite the fuel mixture in a gasoline engine. Ignition lock helps to lock your steering wheel in a particular position when the key is not inserted. The ignition lock can enable you to wind down or wind up your vehicle windows when your vehicle is not in motion and also help you light up your vehicle when not in motion, so the ignition lock is useful in so many ways. Let’s know the Ignition Lock Replacement Cost.
Ignition lock replacement should cost approximately seventy-five dollars to one hundred and twenty-five dollars. This fee is not inclusive of the workmanship or the cost of parts. Labor cost ranges from seventy dollars to ninety-five dollars, which is not considered a standard fee depending on your location and vehicle type.
How do I Identify a Faulty Ignition Lock?
It is providential that the symptoms of a faulty ignition lock are quite detectable, and the cost of replacement will not require you to break the bank in many cases. Below are a few ways to identify a faulty ignition lock.
- The Key occasionally refuses to turn
- Car will not start
- Flickering of the dashboard lights
- Interruptions while driving
- Car accessories will refuse to power on
The key occasionally refuses to turn – when there is an issue with the ignition lock, the key will often time not align with the keyhole. It is advisable to fix this issue immediately if you are experiencing it, as it gets worse over time.
The car does not start – the ignition lock aids in the drawing of electricity or power to the plugs, when something alters this lock, your car will not start. You can consider checking your battery if you are experiencing this challenge, however, it is better to check your ignition lock first.
Flickering of the dashboard lights – if your vehicle ignition is faulty, your vehicle dashboard will go dark occasionally while other times your vehicle dashboard lights will flicker while you are driving. Naturally, your vehicle dashboard lights will go dark when your vehicle is old enough.
Interruptions while driving – if situations where your vehicle cuts out for no justified reason while you are still driving, it means that there is not enough power, and more often than not, it is a sign that there is an issue with your ignition lock.
Car accessories will refuse to power on – when there is not adequate power for your vehicle to start, there will not be adequate power for the accessories in the vehicle to power on equally. Be it that your air conditioner will not power on, or your lights, your radio systems, or even your dashboard, it is advisable to check your ignition lock as soon as possible.
Steps on how to replace an ignition lock
Replacing an ignition lock may vary as there are different car models, however, these steps apply to almost all vehicles.
Step one
Disconnect the vehicle’s battery – you are advised to disconnect the negative and positive cables of the battery before you commence work as you will be dealing with electrical components.
Step Two
Take off the bolts from the steering column cover – removing the cover bolts from the steering column will enable access to the ignition lock.
Step Three
Remove the cover from the steering column – after you have successfully removed the bolts holding the steering column cover, you can proceed to remove the cover itself.
Step Four
Find the Ignition cylinder lock – you should be able to reach the ignition cylinder with ease after you remove the cover from the steering column.
Step Five
Remove the ignition lock cylinder from the housing – insert the key to the steering wheel, and gently take out the ignition lock cylinder from the lock house.
Step Six
With a screwdriver, remove the screws that are on top of the ignition lock.
Step Seven
Insert the brand new ignition lock – it is advisable to consult a technician before trying this out.
When you have successfully inserted the new ignition lock, you can install everything else the reverse way you loosed it.
Conclusion
To replace your ignition lock, you will spend approximately one hundred and thirty dollars to four hundred and eighty dollars inclusive of the labor and cost of some parts of the ignition that might be purchased. It is important to note that the price may vary depending on your vehicle model.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can one fix a serious ignition issue with fifteen to thirty dollars?
The estimated rate for fixing ignition problems is $70 to $180
- Can a locksmith change an ignition lock?
Yes, a locksmith can change an ignition lock.
- How long does it take to replace an ignition lock?
It takes approximately half an hour or an hour to fix and replace an ignition lock. This may vary depending on the model of your vehicle.
