Ignition lock cylinder replacement?

1992 LEXUS ES 300
210,000 MILES • 3.0L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
MUZIKALCHAIRZ
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
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.
Nov 17, 2022 at 1:46 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 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
Nov 17, 2022 at 7:13 PM
Avatar
MUZIKALCHAIRZ
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
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?
Nov 18, 2022 at 6:36 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 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.
Nov 18, 2022 at 6:59 PM
Avatar
MUZIKALCHAIRZ
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
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!
Nov 21, 2022 at 3:40 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 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
Nov 21, 2022 at 7:35 PM