Ignition Lock Cylinder?

The Ignition Lock Cylinder is an important part of your vehicle's ignition switch. Together with the ignition's electronic switch, the lock cylinder allows you to crank your engine to start fuel combustion. So by turning your key to the "On" position in the lock cylinder, the electronic switch connects the starter solenoid to your battery—thus starting your engine. Another function of this lock cylinder is it allows you to use your car's accessories. When you turn your key to the "Accessories" position, you can use your vehicle's electrical accessories without needing to activate your engine first.

Yet like all other units installed in your vehicle, your trusty Ignition Lock Cylinder isn't completely resistant to failure. Years of jamming your key haphazardly in this lock cylinder can lead to extensive damage on this component. When that happens, it's going to be near impossible to start your car. The most common sign of a broken lock cylinder is when you can no longer insert or turn your key in this component.

If the tumblers in your lock cylinder have become stripped, then your car can be turned on with any key—making your vehicle extremely vulnerable to auto theft. On the other hand, if your Ignition Lock Cylinder's tumblers have begun to shift, then you might not be able to insert your key properly. You could wiggle your key until the cylinder turns—but that's just a band-aid solution that will fail as the damage on the lock cylinder increases.