Ignition Lock Assembly Repair Cost Guide
Below are typical repair costs for various ignition lock assembly services. Labor rate is calculated at $125/hour. Prices may vary based on vehicle make, model, and year.
Basic Ignition Lock Cylinder ReplacementLabor Time: 1-2 hours
Parts: $50-150
Total Cost Range: $175-400
Labor Time: 2-3 hours
Parts: $200-400
Total Cost Range: $450-775
Labor Time: 1-1.5 hours
Parts: $150-300
Total Cost Range: $275-488
Labor Time: 2.5-4 hours
Parts: $300-600
Total Cost Range: $612-1100
Note: These are estimated costs. Final pricing may vary depending on:
- Vehicle make and model
- Parts availability
- Additional repairs needed
- Security system integration requirements
All repairs include:
- Professional diagnosis
- Quality OEM or equivalent parts
- Post-repair testing
- 90-day labor warranty
Ignition Lock Assembly Repair Procedures
Steering Column Lock Assembly
Common Symptoms:Difficulty turning key, steering wheel won't lock/unlock, key stuck in ignition
Repair Steps:
- Disconnect vehicle's battery
- Remove steering wheel airbag (if equipped)
- Remove steering wheel using proper puller tool
- Remove upper and lower steering column covers
- Disconnect electrical connectors to ignition switch
- Remove lock housing mounting bolts
- Extract old lock assembly
- Install new lock assembly, ensuring proper alignment
- Reconnect all electrical components
- Reassemble steering column in reverse order
- Test new lock assembly functionality
Key Cylinder Assembly
Common Symptoms:Key won't turn, broken key in cylinder, worn cylinder
Repair Steps:
- Verify correct replacement cylinder and key code
- Remove steering column covers
- Locate cylinder retaining pin
- Insert key and turn to "ACC" position
- Depress retaining pin with special tool
- Remove old cylinder by pulling straight out
- Insert new cylinder with matching key
- Verify retaining pin engages properly
- Test cylinder operation
- Reinstall column covers
Electronic Ignition Switch
Common Symptoms:No start condition, intermittent starting, no accessory power
Repair Steps:
- Disconnect vehicle battery
- Remove necessary trim panels for access
- Locate electronic ignition switch behind cylinder
- Mark and disconnect electrical connectors
- Remove mounting screws/bolts
- Remove old switch assembly
- Install new switch in correct orientation
- Reconnect electrical connectors
- Verify proper operation before reassembly
- Reinstall trim panels
Important Safety Notes:
- Always follow manufacturer-specific procedures
- Take extra care with airbag components
- Use proper tools to avoid damage
- Consider programming requirements for electronic components
- Document wire connections before disconnecting
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific steps may vary by vehicle make and model. Professional installation is recommended for safety-critical components.
Understanding Ignition Lock Assemblies

No content available for this section.
Common Failure Symptoms of Ignition Lock Assembly
Signs of Ignition Lock Assembly Failure & Maintenance Guide
Mechanical Ignition Lock Assembly
Signs of Failure:
- Key becomes difficult to turn or sticks in the ignition
- Lock cylinder feels loose or wobbly
- Key won't insert fully into the ignition
- Visible wear on key or lock cylinder
- Need to jiggle key to start vehicle
Service Schedule:
No regular maintenance required, but inspection recommended every 50,000 miles or if experiencing any issues. Average lifespan is 10-15 years depending on usage.
Electronic Ignition Lock Assembly
Signs of Failure:
- Key fob not being recognized by vehicle
- Intermittent starting issues
- Security light staying on or flashing
- Push-button start becoming unresponsive
- Multiple attempts needed to start vehicle
Service Schedule:
Battery replacement in key fob every 2-3 years. System diagnostic check recommended every 60,000 miles. Electronic components typically last 8-12 years.
Smart Key/Keyless Ignition Lock Assembly
Signs of Failure:
- Inconsistent door unlocking
- System fails to detect key presence
- Start button malfunction
- Error messages on dashboard
- Battery drain issues
Service Schedule:
Key fob battery replacement every 2-4 years. System software updates as recommended by manufacturer. Full system diagnostic check every 50,000 miles.
Important Note: If experiencing any of these symptoms, it's recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a certified technician to prevent potential security or safety issues.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.