Changing whole ignition assembly

MIKESSUHAN

MEMBER
1992 LEXUS ES 300
3.0L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
180,000 MILES

Hi,

So I lost the key for it but don't have a spare either and it's been sitting in my front yard for a couple of years now and now I want to restore it so I drilled out the ignition thing. Cylinder out and broke the whole. So now I want to buy the whole ignition assembly.
But, what my concern is that if I buy another whole ignition assembly will it work right away? After I install it because I just don't want to spend a lot of money if it doesn't
work. I really want to know the process of it. So I would really appreciate it if one of you people help me on this project. Please help me. , )

1 Reply

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good morning,

The easiest way to repair it would have been to have a locksmith come to you and make a key. That would have been an easy fix.

Now you are looking at replacing the steering column and getting a ignition switch and key with the column. Once toy install the column, the key will have to be registered in order to start. That can be done by a locksmith.

Roy

1. Disarm airbag system.
2. Ensure front wheels are straight.
3. Using Torx wrench T30, loosen steering wheel pad retaining screws. Loosen screws until groove along screw circumference catches on screw case.
4. Pull wheel pad out from steering wheel and disconnect airbag electrical connector. When removing airbag, ensure not to pull airbag wire harness.
5. Remove steering wheel set nut, then place scribe marks on steering wheel and main shaft.
6. Using tool No. SST 09213-31021 or equivalent, remove steering wheel.
7. On LS 400 models, remove wire harness spool cover.
8. On all models, remove connector from spool body, then separate harness holder.
9. Remove spiral cable subassembly.

Fig. 2 Steering Column Replacement
imageOpen In New TabZoom/Print

10. Remove steering column, Fig. 2.

Image (Click to make bigger)