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Replace Ignition LOCK CYLINDER and GET RID of the CHIP KEY - Yes, you can DIY!
Buck's Small Engine DIY
Overview
This video demonstrates a DIY method for replacing a faulty ignition lock cylinder on a 2003 Ford F-150. The primary challenge addressed is bypassing the vehicle's transponder chip security system when using a new lock cylinder that doesn't come with a compatible chip. The creator successfully replaces the lock cylinder and then extracts the transponder chip from the old key, hiding it within the steering column near the ignition to trick the vehicle's anti-theft system into allowing the engine to start. This approach saves money compared to dealership or locksmith services.
How was this?
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Chapters
- The original key was not physically stuck, but the ignition cylinder wouldn't turn to start the truck.
- The creator had been leaving the key in the ignition for three months, which is a security risk.
- The truck has a manual transmission, which the creator believes deters some thieves.
- The immediate need is to replace the faulty ignition lock cylinder.
Understanding the specific failure mode (won't turn to start, not stuck) is crucial for diagnosing the problem and choosing the right repair strategy.
The key can be removed from the ignition, but it won't turn to the 'start' position.
- Professional options include dealerships (expensive, requires programming) and locksmiths (costly).
- A Dorman kit with a new cylinder and a reprogramming dongle was considered but had mixed reviews.
- The chosen DIY approach involves a new Dorman lock cylinder (without a transponder chip) and a workaround for the security system.
- The goal is to bypass the transponder requirement by relocating the chip from the old key.
Evaluating different repair options helps learners make informed decisions based on cost, complexity, and risk tolerance.
The creator decides against a Dorman kit that requires a reprogramming dongle due to uncertain reviews.
- Disconnecting the battery is a recommended safety precaution.
- To remove the old cylinder, the key must be turned to the 'Run' position.
- A tool (like a flat punch) is inserted into a small hole to release a retaining button.
- The old lock cylinder is then pulled out.
Learning the physical steps for removing and installing the lock cylinder is essential for performing the repair correctly and avoiding damage.
Using a flat punch inserted into a hole near the ignition cylinder to press a release button.
- The transponder chip is located inside the old key, often near the key ring attachment point.
- The creator carefully cut open the old key using a knife to access the chip.
- The chip was found to be longer than initially expected.
- The chip was successfully extracted without apparent damage.
This step highlights the critical component (the transponder chip) that needs to be preserved and cleverly repurposed to make the new, chip-less key functional.
Using a sharp knife to carefully cut open the plastic casing of the old key to retrieve the transponder chip.
- The new lock cylinder is installed by turning it to the 'Run' position and pushing the release button.
- Initial tests involved placing the extracted chip in various locations within the steering column.
- The engine would crank but not start, indicating the chip wasn't being read.
- The chip needed to be positioned very close to the ignition lock cylinder's reading ring.
- The chip was ultimately glued near the outside of the ignition cylinder housing, where it was successfully read.
This experimental phase demonstrates the precise proximity required for the vehicle's security system to recognize the transponder chip, a key troubleshooting step.
The truck starts when the transponder chip is held close to the ignition cylinder, but not when placed deeper inside the steering column.
- The transponder chip was secured in its optimal position using E6000 glue.
- The steering column covers were reassembled.
- After letting the glue dry overnight, the battery was reconnected.
- The truck started successfully with the new cylinder and the relocated chip.
- The creator notes that the old key is still needed for the door locks.
This confirms the DIY solution's effectiveness, providing a working ignition system while bypassing the need for a transponder-equipped key.
The truck starts and runs normally after the new lock cylinder and relocated transponder chip are installed and the steering column is reassembled.
Key takeaways
- Faulty ignition lock cylinders can often be replaced as a DIY project, saving significant costs.
- Vehicle security systems relying on transponder chips can sometimes be bypassed by relocating the original chip.
- Careful extraction and precise placement of the transponder chip are critical for the bypass to work.
- DIY repairs provide a sense of accomplishment and allow funds to be reallocated to other priorities.
- While functional, this bypass method means the original key is still required for door locks unless a full set of cylinders is replaced.
Key terms
Ignition Lock CylinderTransponder ChipTheft Deterrent SystemDIY (Do It Yourself)Steering ColumnRetaining ButtonSecurity System BypassLocksmithDealership
Test your understanding
- What is the primary reason the creator chose to bypass the transponder chip system instead of getting a new programmed key?
- How does the creator physically remove the old ignition lock cylinder from the steering column?
- What is the critical factor in successfully relocating the transponder chip so the vehicle will start?
- What are the potential risks or downsides of the DIY method demonstrated in the video?
- Why is the original key still needed for the door locks even after replacing the ignition cylinder?