How to Remove Ignition Lock Cylinder Without Key – 4 Ways To Remove An Ignition Cylinder Without A Key

Now that we have all the tools we need let’s discuss how to remove an ignition lock cylinder without a key. This method requires professional tools and skills, so if you are sure you can do it, please follow the steps below:

Step 1: Disconnect your car’s battery

The first and most crucial step in this process is disconnecting the car battery. This will protect you from harm and electrocution while you work on your vehicle. To do so, take off the negative cable terminal.

Step 2: Get the steering wheel out

In order to access the ignition cylinder better, you will need to remove the steering wheel. To do so, take out the screws to remove both the upper and lower cover of the column. Once you have removed those covers, pull back on the center cover until the wheel lifts off. Disconnect any wires that connect to the horn. 

You will also want to keep track of which nuts and washers came from where you dismantle everything – this way; it is easier when it comes time to put it all back together again! Finally, once everything is unscrewed and disconnected, you should be able to simply pull the wheel right off of its shaft.

Step 3: Remove the wiper and indicator switches.

Remove the wiper and indicator switches from the steering wheel. This will give you more room to work and access to the back of the ignition switch. To do this, unscrew and remove the screws holding these switches in place. You will likely need a small flathead screwdriver for this task.

Step 4: Take the sleeves from the steering column out.

You will need to take the plastic sleeves out of the steering column to access the retaining clip holding the ignition switch. To do this, use a small screwdriver or a butter knife to pry these plastic sleeves.

Step 5: Remove the electrical connector.

Locate and remove the electrical connector attached to the back of the ignition switch. This will likely be a small, black connector. Once you have found it, use your fingers to disconnect it by pressing down on the tab holding it in place, and then pulling it apart.

Step 6: Take the mounting bolts out and check the bolts.

Use a socket wrench or flat screwdriver to remove the bolts and screws holding the ignition switch. Next, take out the bolts of the housing which contains the cylinder. The release mechanism can be triggered by using a pin and inserting it into a tiny hole that is usually found on almost all car models with an interchangeable ignition lock cylinder.

Step 7: Insert a straightened paper clip.

If you want to prevent the ignition from starting, use a paper clip that has been straightened out and insert it into the lock cylinder slot. Turn it to the left until you feel it click into place – this means that the cylinder is now locked.

Step 8: Insert a flathead screwdriver.

Put the flathead screwdriver in the cylinder and move it to the right. Push it as far as possible. When the screwdriver can’t go any further, pull the paper clip to the right.

Step 9: Remove the ignition lock from its place.

And finally, the last step is to remove the ignition lock from its place. To do this, simply pull it out with your fingers or use a pair of pliers if it’s stubborn. Be careful not to damage any surrounding wires as you do this.

Step 10: Installing the new ignition.

Now that you have removed the old ignition, it’s time to install the new one. To do this, simply follow all of the steps in reverse – start by inserting the new ignition into its place and then screwing it in with the bolts. Make sure that it is secure before moving on to the next step.

Step 11: Reconnect all of the wires and switches.

Now it’s time to reconnect all the wires and switches you disconnected earlier. Start with the electrical connector, followed by the wiper and indicator switches. Once those are all back in place, screw in the covers of the steering column and then reattach the steering wheel.

Step 12: Reattach the negative cable to the battery.

The last step is to reattach the negative cable to the battery. Once you have done that, turn on the ignition and test it out to ensure everything is working properly. You’re all done if everything seems to be in working order! Congratulations – you have successfully removed and replaced your car’s ignition lock without a key.