Do you feel that your GM ignition lock cylinder is not working properly? Then, it is time to get it fixed or find a new one for your vehicle. It is one of the major parts of your automobile starter system, and you will have to immediately repair it. While it is easy to remove the lock cylinder when you have a key, it becomes a bit difficult when you are unable to find your keys or, worse, have lost them. But there is no need to worry. With this handbook, you will learn how to remove gm ignition lock cylinder without key. Therefore, ensure to read until the end.
Signs of a Damaged Ignition Lock Cylinder
If you do not know how to identify a faulty ignition lock cylinder, here is how to recognize it. The primary sign of a damaged cylinder is when your car does not start, no matter what you do. If you continuously insert the key inside the ignition but still get no results, then, indeed the problem lies in the ignition lock cylinder.
More symptoms include the key getting stuck in the ignition or the engine unexpectedly stalling while driving. If you notice any of these signs, you must get in touch with a professional who will identify the issue and provide the necessary assistance.
Tools Required To Remove GM Ignition Lock Without a Key
Certain tools are required if you want to remove the ignition lock cylinder without a key. You can not simply detach it with your bare hands. Ensure you have these tools before you begin the process, which will prepare you completely for it.
- Drill bitÂ
- power drill
- flathead screwdriver
- straightened paper clip
Methods To Disassemble GM Ignition Lock Cylinder
Before you start removing the ignition cylinder, it is essential to disconnect the car battery from the vehicle to avoid being electrocuted. Here, we will discuss two methods about how to remove ignition lock cylinder without key. If you face any issues anytime, do not hesitate to get in touch with a professional locksmith.Â
Method 1
In this technique, the ignition system does not need to be drilled. To achieve success, simply follow the below steps.
- Step 1- Discard the Steering Wheel: Remove the screws that attach the lower and upper covers of the steering wheel column, and then take off the center cover to lift the steering wheel. Afterward, disconnect the horn wires and gently pull the steering wheel off its shaft. Handling the steering wheel carefully during this process is important to avoid harming any fragile parts.
- Step 2—Detach the sleeves from the steering column: After you remove the switches of the indicator and wipers, you need to remove the sleeves from the steering column. First, unscrew the ignition and remove it from its place. Subsequently, disconnect the wires located on the back of the ignition switch. You must also loosen the tabs to enable the switch’s extraction.Â
- Step 3- Remove the Mounting Bolts: Now, using a flathead screwdriver, you will have to unscrew the mounting bolts that hold the ignition switch in place. Once you remove these components, you will have access to the housing and assembly containing the ignition cylinder, where you can insert a pin into the appropriate pinhole to engage the cylinder’s release mechanism.
- Step 4—Insert a straightened paper clip & twist it to the left:  This operation locks the cylinder, preventing the ignition from starting. Next, utilize a flathead screwdriver by inserting it into the cylinder and turning it to the right until it can move no further. After reaching this limit, pull the paper clip to the right and extract the ignition cylinder from its location.
Method 2
If you want to avoid proceeding with the above mentioned method, you can always choose the approach below. This will require using a drill machine for the removal of the GM ignition lock cylinder.  Â
1- Remove the screws of the ignition with the help of the screwdriver.
2—After this, you will need a drill to form a hole at the center of the ignition switch. Ensure that the hole is not overly large; it should be just enough to permit the large drill bit to fit through comfortably.
3—Once it is done, you will need to put in a large drill bit and remove the center of the ignition by drilling.
4- Next, insert the small drill bit into the hole that you have just created, loosen the tumbler, and then use a screwdriver to take it out. Repeat the process, and once every tumbler is removed, you should be able to lock the cylinder from the ignition switch.
5—Once the ignition lock cylinder is detached, you can either insert a new cylinder yourself or have a professional handle the replacement for you.
Final Thoughts
With the above methods, you can easily remove the GM ignition lock cylinder. However, if you face any issues during the process or are unable to do it on your own, you must contact a locksmith. They are adept at handling such situations and will surely help you.
People May Also Ask
The ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical element shaped like a cylinder, which is utilized to activate the starting mechanism of your automobile.
Ignition lock cylinders can last several years. However, as many vehicles are now equipped with smart keys, the issues related to them will decrease.
The average price for an Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement is estimated to be between $247 and $295, and the labor costs are likely to range from $70 to $89.
If the entire lock cylinder shifts when you turn the key to unlock the door, it is advisable to address this issue promptly to prevent the complete disassembly of the lock, which could leave you vulnerable.
Yes. If you decide to change your ignition lock cylinder, it will probably no longer work with your old keys and will require a new set of keys.
Serving as the mechanical holder for your key, the lock cylinder contrasts with the ignition switch, which is an electrical apparatus that facilitates the transfer of power from the battery to the starter motor.
New ignition cylinders typically come with a key that fits them. Although one can have a new cylinder rekeyed to function with an old key, they must contact a professional locksmith to avail themselves of this service.Â
