1997 Chevy Malibu ignition lock cylinder

1997 CHEVROLET MALIBU
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ACJ1989
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Engine Mechanical problem
1997 Chevy Malibu 6 cyl Automatic 70000 miles

i have a 1997 chevy malibu and the ignition just locked up on me. It will not turn at all in any direction. I was advised to buy a new ignition lock cylinder with keys and did ( to save money by avoiding the mechanics shop ) . the only problem i have is that i do not know how to remove the old one to replace it. I have read that it needs to be drilled into through the plastic housing in order to release the button but am not sure how to do so. any information (diagrams or really good details) on how to do this would be greatly appreciated.
Aug 27, 2009 at 7:41 PM
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BLUELIGHTNIN6
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The mechanical key and lock cylinder is located in the instrument panel assembly just to the right of the steering wheel. The electrical switching portion of the assembly is separate from the key and lock cylinder. However, both are synchronized and work in conjunction through the action of the actuator rod assembly.


REMOVAL & INSTALLATION




If equipped, disable the SIR system.
Disconnect the negative battery cable.
Remove the ignition switch trim ring (bezel) by gently prying it out from the lock cylinder with a small suitable prytool.
Remove the trim plate by gently prying around the edges with a small suitable prytool.
Remove the tilt lever (if equipped) by pulling it firmly out from the steering column
Snap off the upper steering column cover by gently prying between it and the bottom cover.
Remove the lower steering column cover screws and lower the steering column cover.
If necessary, remove the instrument panel cluster trim plate.
Remove the two ignition switch bolts.
Detach the two electrical connectors.
Disconnect the ignition lock cable from the ignition switch.
Remove the ignition switch from the vehicle.



INSTALLATION:

Insert the key into the ignition switch cylinder and rotate it into the RUN position.
Press the cylinder release plunger located at the four o'clock position on the ignition switch.
Use the key in order to pull the cylinder from the ignition switch.
Assemble the cylinder into the ignition switch.
Verify the engagement and operation of the cylinder using the key.
The remainder of installation is the reverse of the removal procedure.
Aug 27, 2009 at 7:59 PM