how to turn ignition without key

The ignition lock cylinder is an essential part of your car. Sometimes it fails to give you no other option rather than removing and replacing it.

With a key, removing the ignition is easy. But when you lose your key, you can also use simple tools such as screwdrivers and remove the ignition lock.

In this article, we will share with you a simple to follow the procedure that you can use to remove the ignition lock from its place.

Let's get started.

Required Tools to Remove Ignition Lock Cylinder Without Key

To successfully remove the ignition lock cylinder without a key, you will need to have the following critical tools. All of these tools are available on Amazon. You can order them now. How to Remove Ignition Lock Cylinder Without Key

Drill bit
Power drill
Flathead screw driver

Step 1: Disconnect The Battery

The first thing you need to do is to disconnect your battery. This will ensure that you don't get electrocuted or short anything in the car.

Remove negative cable terminal to disconnect the battery. With the negative terminal removed, you will be safe to work on your car.

Step 2: Remove The Steering Wheel

The next thing you will need to do is to remove the steering wheel from its place so that you can access the ignition lock cylinder.

Remove the screws to remove the lower and upper cover from the steering wheel column.

After you have removed the covers, lift the wheel up – pull at the center cover. Disconnect the horn wires.

Retain the washers and nuts as you remove the steering wheel.

Finally, pull the steering wheel from its shaft.

Step 3: Remove Indicator and Wipers Switches

Locate these two switches and pull them away from their place.

Step 4: Remove Sleeves From Steering Column

In the steering wheel column, you will find spacer columns. Locate and slide it up after you have removed the indicator and wiper switches.

Step 5: Disconnect All Electrical Connection Leading To Ignition Switch

Locate the mounting screws on the ignition switch. Unscrew them and pull the ignition switch out.

Carefully disconnect wires from the connector on the rear side of the ignition switch.

To pull the switch out, you will need to loosen the tabs and pull them out.

Step 6: Remove The Mounting Bolts

Get a socket wrench or screwdriver to unscrew the mounting screws or bolts on the ignition switch. Unbolt the switch assembly and housing that contains the lock cylinder.

Most of the car models have an interchangeable lock cylinder. These cylinders can easily be removed by inserting a pin into a pinhole using the release mechanism. Alternatively, you can turn an ignition key in the accessories position.

Step 7: Inspect The Mounting Bolts On The Ignition Switch Housing

Some car models have safety snap-off bolt heads. The main role of this component is to prevent thieves from replacing your can ignition lock and driving it off without a key.

So, in this case, you will need a power-drill with extractors to remove the bolts that mount the ignition switch to the steering column.

Step 8: Lock the Key Cylinder

Insert a straightened paperclip into the slot and turn to the left. This will lock the cylinder and prevent the ignition from starting.

Step 9: Use A Screwdriver

Insert the screwdriver into the cylinder and turn it on the right as far as you can.

After that, pull the paperclip on the far right as much as possible. Gently slide the switch out of its place.

Parting Shot

As simple as that, you will have removed your ignition lock from its place.