Ignition lock cylinder replacement?

Tiny
MUZIKALCHAIRZ
  • MEMBER
  • 1992 LEXUS ES 300
  • 3.0L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 210,000 MILES
I am replacing the ignition lock cylinder. The key was binding, and so would not turn. Unfortunately, I cannot afford for a locksmith to do this, so I have to do it myself. I have begun the work already, and the steering wheel is off, along with most of the plastic panels needed. I have a few questions at this stage. Will I need to remove the dash in order to access the ignition switch assembly? Do I need to remove the steering column completely, or can I take the ignition switch assembly off without removing more parts? If so, the repair manual I have is unclear as to how to remove the parts needed.
Thursday, November 17th, 2022 AT 1:46 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,192 POSTS
Hi,

If you are replacing the ignition lock cylinder, the steering column needs lowered but not removed. Once it is lowered, there is a release button that is pressed while the key is in the ACC position to remove the lock cylinder.

Take a look at the pics below and let me know if they help.

Take care,

Joe
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Thursday, November 17th, 2022 AT 7:13 PM
Tiny
MUZIKALCHAIRZ
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Thank you, The key will not turn to the acc position, so unfortunately I am drilling the cylinder very carefully. How do I lower the column?
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Friday, November 18th, 2022 AT 6:36 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,192 POSTS
Hi,

You already have the steering wheel off, so you have already dealt with the air bag. There should be two nuts under the column that attaches it to the framework. See pic below.

You should be able to remove those two nuts and gently lower it.

Let me know if that helps.

Joe

See pic below.
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Friday, November 18th, 2022 AT 6:59 PM
Tiny
MUZIKALCHAIRZ
  • MEMBER
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Thank you. The only struggle I'm having now is the pin to remove the cylinder. That is just a matter of working on my end. Thank you for your help!
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Monday, November 21st, 2022 AT 3:40 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,192 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. I'm not sure what is happening with the release pin. You should be able to depress it and pull the lock cylinder out of the column.

Let me know what I can do to help.

Take care,

Joe
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Monday, November 21st, 2022 AT 7:35 PM

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