Knowledge Builders

how much does it cost to replace an ignition key cylinder

by Robin Donnelly Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

The average cost to replace an ignition lock cylinder is $237 for parts and labor. This estimate is an average across all regions and vehicle types. Labor ranges from $45 per hour on the low end to $90 per hour on the high end depending on the region.

Full Answer

How much for a replacement ignition key?

How much does it cost to replace a lost ignition key? In 2020, the cost of a car key replacement ranges between $75 to $300. We’ve compiled a list of what determines the cost of a car key replacement.

How much should it cost to replace Ignition?

The price of this part varies by manufacturer, but purchasing it through the manufacturer, rather than a repair service company, can reduce the cost of the repair. An ignitor typically costs between $30 and $50. The labor costs involved to replace the ignitor will vary by area but generally start at $75.

How do I get a replacement ignition key?

  • Replace lost keys – If you don’t have the original key
  • Cut & Copy Vehicle Keys – Provide a spare car key
  • Programme Remote Car Key Fobs
  • Opening Cars – Opening locked vehicles (e.g. if keys locked inside)
  • Vehicle Locks – Change and repair damaged locks
  • Repair keys – they can repair damaged or broken keys

How much does it cost to replace an ignition switch?

  • You locate the ignition switch, which is usually positioned either on your steering wheel column or near your dashboard
  • You stick your car key into your ignition switch
  • You turn your car key from the off position to the on position and then to the start position (assuming you want to start your car)

More items...

image

How long does it take to replace ignition lock cylinder?

Ignition cylinder replacement will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. This timeframe will shift depending on the exact make and model of a car. For instance, this process might take longer when working on classic cars.

How much does it cost to replace a cylinder?

A cracked cylinder head repair job may cost around $500, including $200 to $300 for parts and $90 to $100 per hour for labor costs. However, this calculation is applicable if your car has an aluminum cylinder head, like most modern vehicles.

Do you need a new key when replacing ignition cylinder?

The new lock cylinder does come with new keys but you would have to use the original key to open the doors or have all of the lock cylinders on the doors and trunk match the new ignition lock cylinder.

How much is a key cylinder?

Typical costs: An ignition lock cylinder averages about $50-$250 for just the part, but can cost $10-$700 or more, depending on the make and model of vehicle and whether the part is aftermarket (produced by a company other than the vehicle manufacturer) or OEM (produced by the vehicle manufacturer).

Can you replace one cylinder?

With only one broken cylinder, yes you can, but it isn't recommended. Driving with the engine having a misfired cylinder can be potentially dangerous. You'll already be low of power with one cylinder if not firing and if you another cylinder goes out, then you lose more power.

Can you drive with a blown cylinder?

Ultimately, it could cost you your engine Then, when the pistons come up, the water pressure inside the cylinders can cause the cylinder walls to crack. If you suspect that your engine may have a blown head gasket, it's best to stop driving it right away.

How much does a new ignition cost?

Expect to pay between $60 to $180 in labor to have the switch replaced. Generally speaking, ignition switch replacement takes about an hour to an hour and a half. If you add up the average cost of parts and labor, the total ignition switch replacement cost will usually run in the neighborhood of $130 to $480.

What is the difference between an ignition switch and ignition cylinder?

The ignition lock cylinder and ignition switch are not the same thing. The lock cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into; the switch is the electrical portion that sends power to the vehicle. On many cars, these are two separate components that can be repaired individually.

Can you rekey an ignition lock cylinder?

Can a locksmith rekey ignition cylinders? Yes. Ignition cylinders are just locks, and they can be taken apart and put back together with different internal components. Any experienced auto locksmith can rekey an existing or new cylinder for your car's ignition.

How much is a new ignition barrel and key?

The average car ignition repair or lock replacement job takes around 2-3 hours and costs between $250 and $500. If it's just the key that needs re-cutting, then the price could be as low as $180 in some situations. But it will never ever be as low as $45.

How long does it take to replace an ignition switch?

about 20 minutesUsually, an ignition switch replacement will only take about 20 minutes. However, it could take much longer depending on your car's make and model and the complexity of the ignition covers. The best way to know for sure how long your service will take is to talk to the mechanic directly.

Can you replace an ignition switch yourself?

1:052:52How to Replace Ignition Switch in Your Car - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you can access the screws that hold the cover in place. And once you get those screws out of theMoreSo you can access the screws that hold the cover in place. And once you get those screws out of the way you just pry on the side here where the slit is time snap it.

How much does it cost to replace an ignition lock cylinder?

A heavy key chain can pull on the ignition lock cylinder, either shifting or stripping the tumblers. An ignition lock cylinder averages about $50-$250 for just the part, but can cost $10-$700 or more, depending on the make and model of vehicle and whether the part is aftermarket (produced by a company other than the vehicle manufacturer) ...

How to tell if ignition lock cylinder is bad?

Signs of a bad ignition lock cylinder vary: if the tumblers inside the cylinder shift position, the key won't turn at all; if the tumblers are stripped, the cylinder might turn with any key rather than just the ignition key. A heavy key chain can pull on the ignition lock cylinder, either shifting or stripping the tumblers.

Why is an ignition cylinder important?

But just in case you’re confused, your car’s ignition cylinder is one of the first lines of defense when it comes to protecting your car from ever being stolen. Unless someone has a key to your car, they’re going to struggle to steal it thanks ...

What is the ignition cylinder in a car?

The ignition cylinder in your car is the part of it that you stick your car into when starting it up. It’s designed to work with your car’s specific key and to protect your car from being stolen by someone else.

How long does it take to replace an ignition cylinder?

While every mechanic and locksmith works at a slightly different pace, it should take less than half an hour in most cases for them to replace a bad ignition cylinder.

What does it mean when your car key is wiggled around?

If you have to wiggle your car key around a whole lot to get it to turn in your ignition cylinder, that could also suggest a serious problem with it.

What happens if you put a car key in the wrong cylinder?

When you get into your car and put your car key into your ignition cylinder, it has tiny actuators inside of it that will allow you to turn it to start up your car. If you try to use the wrong key in it, you’ll find that it won’t turn at all.

Can you turn a key with a bad ignition cylinder?

More often than not, you’re not going to be able to turn the key when you have a bad ignition cylinder on your hands. In this instance, you’ll have to arrange to have ignition cylinder replacement done right away and pay the ignition cylinder replacement cost.

What are the symptoms of a bad ignition lock cylinder?

What are the symptoms related to a bad ignition lock cylinder? When the ignition switch lock cylinder fails, it can create a situation where the ignition cannot be turned, or takes much wiggling and shaking before it finally turns.

What is the lock cylinder in a car?

The ignition lock cylinder and ignition switch are two separate components. The lock cylinder is the portion that the key slides into and allows the ignition to turn. This is one of your vehicle's defenses against theft.

What happens if the key doesn't go in the ignition?

If the key won't go in or turn, you won't be able to drive the car, obviously. If the key won't come out, theft is a major concern. Either way, you'll want this fixed quickly.

How much does labor cost?

Labor costs are estimated between $71 and $90 while parts are priced at $157. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed. This range is an average across all vehicles on the road.

Do you need to replace a lock cylinder?

Most vehicles will never need the lock cylinder replaced. You can help yours last by cleaning your ignition key, making sure there's no lint on it before putting it in the ignition, and keeping your keychain fairly light, so as not to put added pressure on the cylinder while you drive.

Can you run an ignition with a key removed?

Or, it's possible the ignition will turn and run with the key removed, or lets the key be removed in any position. Lastly, the lock can fail to release your key, or not allow the key to travel all the way into the ignition lock cylinder.

How does an ignition cylinder work and what does it do?

When the correct key is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder, tiny actuators are activated allowing the cylinder to rotate. This is what happens when you put your key in the car and start it.

Cost of Parts by Make and Model (based on OEM ignition lock cylinder only)

When shopping for car parts, it is important to pay close attention to what you are buying. Prices range from as little as $23 for low-end aftermarket parts to as much as $500 for OEM and high-end aftermarket kits that contain more parts than just the ignition cylinder.

How often do ignition lock cylinders need to be replaced?

There is no identified mileage at which this part is recommended for replacement. Most failures occur in higher mileage vehicles or are due to an original factory defect.

Cost of Replacement (Parts & Labor) with Make, Model and Region

While most failures occur in higher mileage (older) vehicles, a defect is not unheard of. This part was a commonly reported failure in the 2002 Oldsmobile Alero well before these cars reached higher mileages.

Comparing Dealer Service Centers and Locksmiths for Repair Costs

A bad ignition cylinder affects the key and lock function of your vehicle and it is a repair that most locksmiths can make. You may be wondering if there is a cost benefit to using a locksmith instead of a dealership service center.

The Bottom Line on the Cost to Replace an Ignition Lock Cylinder

For most makes and models, the cost to replace a failing ignition lock cylinder is reasonable with an average price tag of $237.

What Is an Ignition Lock Cylinder?

There are a lot of people who make the mistake of confusing a car’s ignition lock cylinder with its ignition switch. But it’s worth noting that these are two very different parts. You should understand the difference between the two of them so that you know how each one works.

How Does an Ignition Lock Cylinder Work?

Although the ignition lock cylinder in your car is one of the most important parts in it when it comes to starting it up, it’s not all that complicated of a part. It’s pretty easy to understand how it works in the grand scheme of things. It’s also pretty easy to see why you’re going to need to have it working the way it’s supposed to at all times.

How Long Should an Ignition Lock Cylinder Last?

The good news for those who might be worried about their ignition lock cylinders at this point is that it’s fairly uncommon for them to fail. Most people don’t ever have to do ignition lock cylinder replacement in their vehicles. They’re able to keep on turning their car keys in their ignitions without any issues.

What Are Some of the Signs of a Bad Ignition Lock Cylinder?

When you have a bad ignition lock cylinder on your hands, it should be pretty easy to tell. You’re not going to be able to successfully stick your car key into your ignition and turn it when you’re in need of ignition lock cylinder replacement. But that’s not the only sign that’ll suggest you might need to replace your ignition lock cylinder.

Can You Keep Driving With a Bad Ignition Lock Cylinder?

If you find yourself with a bad ignition lock cylinder on your hands, you might not have the option to continue to drive your car around. Your bad ignition lock cylinder might make it literally impossible for you to get your car up and running. You may have no choice but to arrange to have ignition lock cylinder replacement performed on your car.

Who Should You Call On to Perform Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement?

If you believe that your ignition lock cylinder has gone bad on you and you want to have it replaced, there are going to be a couple of good options that you’ll have as far as replacing it. First and foremost, you can call on your regular mechanic to work on your ignition lock cylinder.

Should You Ever Try to Do Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement Yourself?

There are some car repair jobs that you might be able to tackle yourself in an effort to save some money. But unfortunately, doing ignition lock cylinder replacement is probably not going to be one of them.

How Much Should It Cost?

Labor can range from very little to a lot, depending on which component is being replaced. Also, it is dependent on location.

Additional Costs That Might Be Required

Depending on the vehicle and the manufacturer’s security system, you may have to have the ignition switch programmed to the vehicle which usually will cost an additional hour of labor.

What Is An Ignition Switch?

An ignition switch is a device used to start the engine when a key is inserted into the lock cylinder and turned. The ignition switch is made up of three components.

So Which Component Do You Need To Replace?

If your key goes into the lock cylinder but doesn’t turn or binds when trying to turn, it’s very likely that your lock cylinder has worn out. Replacing just the lock cylinder is going to save you money, and if you have it re-keyed to match your original key, everything will work just fine.

image

1.The Complete Ignition Cylinder Replacement Cost Guide

Url:https://autoservicecosts.com/ignition-cylinder-replacement-cost/

33 hours ago With repeated use, the cylinder can wear out and need replacing. Ignition cylinders, also called ignition cylinder locks, can cost anywhere from $10-$700. More often than not, though, the cost will range between $70 and $250 for the parts and about $70 for the labor.

2.How Much Does Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement …

Url:https://cars.costhelper.com/replace-ignition-lock-cylinder-cost.html

19 hours ago An ignition lock cylinder averages about $50-$250 for just the part, but can cost $10-$700 or more, depending on the make and model of vehicle and whether the part is aftermarket (produced by a company other than the vehicle manufacturer) or OEM (produced by …

3.Ignition Cylinder Replacement Cost: What You Should …

Url:https://www.cashcarsbuyer.com/ignition-cylinder-replacement-cost/

14 hours ago How much does it cost to replace an ignition key cylinder? The average cost for an ignition lock cylinder replacement is between $200 and $259. Labor costs are estimated between $83 and $106 while parts are priced between $117 and $153.

4.Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement Cost - RepairPal …

Url:https://repairpal.com/estimator/ignition-lock-cylinder-replacement-cost

6 hours ago The average cost for ignition lock cylinder replacement is between $75 and $94. Labor costs are estimated between $71 and $90 while parts are priced at $4. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or …

5.Videos of How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Ignition Key Cylin…

Url:/videos/search?q=how+much+does+it+cost+to+replace+an+ignition+key+cylinder&qpvt=how+much+does+it+cost+to+replace+an+ignition+key+cylinder&FORM=VDRE

18 hours ago For most makes and models, the cost to replace a failing ignition lock cylinder is reasonable with an average price tag of $237. The cost of labor in your local area (and by extension the cost of living), as well as whether you choose to work with a small shop, dealership, or locksmith will factor into the price that you pay.

6.Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement Cost - CostHack.com

Url:https://costhack.com/ignition-lock-cylinder-cost/

4 hours ago  · The average cost for an ignition lock cylinder replacement is between $200 and $259. Labor costs are estimated between $83 and $106 while parts are priced between $117 and $153. Estimate does not include taxes and fees.

7.Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement: What Is It Going to …

Url:https://www.cashcarsbuyer.com/ignition-lock-cylinder-replacement/

3 hours ago  · On average, the ignition lock cylinder replacement cost usually falls somewhere between $200 and $250. That includes right around $130 for parts and anywhere from $80 to $110 for labor. There is a chance that ignition lock cylinder replacement might cost a little more than that if you have to call on a mechanic or locksmith for emergency services.

8.Ignition Switch Replacement Cost Guide 2022 (Updated)

Url:https://spendonauto.com/ignition-switch-replacement-cost/

30 hours ago If a lock cylinder is needed, it would cost $150 in labor and a full ignition switch assembly (housing, switch, lock cylinder and new keys) would range between $150 and $225. Rekeying the new lock cylinder would cost extra, and the new ignition …

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9