How to drill an ignition lock cylinder (6 steps)

Content

Ignition cylinder lock mechanism
6 Step Guide to Drilling an Ignition Lock Cylinder
Safety tips for the above drilling process

In this article I will tell you how to drill the ignition lock cylinder.

If you're having problems with your car's ignition lock, it might be time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Removing the ignition lock cylinder is a little more difficult than you might think. You must hit the locking mechanism with a suitable size drill bit. So, with the right tools and technique, I'll show you how you can do it.

In general, to drill out the ignition lock cylinder:

Disconnect the battery.
Remove the steering wheel and covers.
Determine the drilling point.
Wear protective gear.
Start drilling the ignition lock cylinder.
Insert the key into the ignition lock and pull out the cylinder.

You will get more details below.

Ignition cylinder lock mechanism

Before proceeding with the practical guide, you need to know about the ignition lock cylinder lock mechanism. The whole process revolves around this locking mechanism. You will get a better idea after I explain it to you.

The ignition lock cylinder has a spring mechanism. To remove the cylinder, you must release this spring mechanism. This can be done by turning the key to the ACC position.

Tip of the day: The ignition lock has four positions; LOCK, ACC, ON and START.

But when the switch is damaged, you cannot unlock the lock mechanism. So, you will have to rely on an alternative way.

In this guide, I will teach you how to drill to disable the lock mechanism.

6 Step Guide to Drilling an Ignition Lock Cylinder

Things You'll Need

Drill
Hardened drills
Protective gloves
Safety glasses
Flat screwdriver
Philips screwdriver
Marker
WD-40 for lubrication (optional)

Step 1 - Disconnect the battery

First of all, open the hood of the car and disconnect the battery. Disconnect the main power source before starting the process. This is a mandatory step for security.

Step 2 - Remove the steering wheel and plastic covers.

Then remove the plastic covers that surround the ignition key area. Loosen the screw holding the cover. Use a Philips screwdriver for this.

Depending on the vehicle model, you may need to remove more than one cover.

Next, using a Philips screwdriver, remove the mounting bolt holding the steering wheel. After that, disconnect the wire from the steering wheel, and remove it completely. It is not necessary to remove the steering wheel. But I would recommend that you do it anyway. However, if your ignition switch is located on the dashboard, you do not need to remove the steering wheel.

Remember about: Some ignition lock cylinders may have one or two screws. If so, remove them.

Step 3 - Determine the drilling position

Study the diagram above. As you can see, the ignition lock cylinder needs to be drilled 8-10 mm from the key slot. The goal is to get to the locking mechanism (perpendicular line of the ignition key socket) with a drill. So, mark the place before starting the drilling process.

Remember about: Don't drill too close to the keyhole. This may damage the slot. Also, you won't be able to properly aim at the locking mechanism by drilling a large hole.

Step 4 - Wear protective gear

Then put on the appropriate protective equipment. For this drilling process, protective gloves and goggles must be worn. Wearing protective gear will protect your hands and eyes.

Step 5 - Start the drilling process

Now you can start the drilling process. First, choose the right drill for the process. A hardened drill bit is ideal for this drilling process.

Hardened drills are made from cobalt. They are much stronger than titanium drills, and titanium is best suited for softer metal and wood. (1)

Insert the drill into the drill chuck.
Tighten the drill properly.
Place the drill in the marked place.
Start the drilling process slowly. Do not insert a drill into the ignition lock cylinder. Then gradually increase the drilling speed.
Use WD-40 for lubrication if necessary.
Keep drilling until you break the locking mechanism.

Note: WD-40 can effectively remove corrosion and rust.

Step 6 - Remove the ignition lock cylinder.

By drilling through the locking mechanism, you can remove the lock cylinder. To do this, insert the key into the ignition switch.

Then pull out the ignition lock cylinder with the key. You can also use a flathead screwdriver for this step.

In some cases, the lock cylinder cannot come out easily. If so, shuffle the ignition key a few times and try to pull the cylinder out.

Remember about: The ignition lock cylinder can connect the wires. Disconnect them before pulling out the cylinder completely. Otherwise, you may damage the wires.

Now you can easily install a new ignition lock cylinder.

Safety tips for the above drilling process

While it's important to get the job done right, your safety should be at the top of your list. With that in mind, here are some safety tips that could save you from disaster.

Always wear a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hand. A simple delusion can hurt your hands. (2)
During drilling, small metal parts can get into your eyes. Therefore, be sure to wear appropriate safety goggles.
Never run the above process while the main power supply is connected. Disconnect the battery from your vehicle.
Always start with a low drilling speed. Gradually increase the speed if necessary. Excessive force and speed can damage the environment.
Use hardened drill bits for this process. As I mentioned above, cobalt is the best option. A titanium drill can break under this pressure.
Applying too much force can burn out the rotor located inside the drill motor. Replacing these parts can be expensive. So avoid this situation by all means.

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