[Jerms77]

It looks like one of the tumblers has dropped or lost a spring in my ignition cylinder. The 3rd one in appears to be missing. The key would not go in, finally it went in, key won't turn, wheel is locked. I've noticed it says service theft system on the dash as well. When I had it towed home, I tried my second key and got the same thing.

I've ordered a replacement cylinder and I'd like to know if it's something I can handle myself. I've never done an ignition before, and with all the extra options a cadillac has, I'm a little concerned. I am mechanicly inclined but these electrical systems can be pretty confusing. If anyone could shed some light on this I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.

 

[Submariner409]

You might want to subscribe your car to www.alldatadiy.com for this (The Cadillac service manual for your year plus a LOT more) - there's a specific key lock cylinder replacement procedure.............

 

[Jerms77]

Thank you submariner. That looks like it would be a great piece of information to have. Unfortunately it's $25 for a year, and I don't know how much longer I will have this vehicle. Is replacing the cylinder lock that difficult? Maybe I should bring it to a professional then. I was trying to save some money, things have been rough lately.

 

[Jerms77]

Ive got the information I need to get the job done and Im confident that I can do it. I'm stuck at the air bag removal part, because I can't locate the air bag removal tool anywhere. I tried with a flat blade screwdriver but the wheel is locked and theres not much room to work around, as well as the fact I only have two hands. Does anybody know where I can get the air bag removal tool or is there another work around I can try? It's a 2001 DTS.

 

[Ranger]

Unlock the wheel and rotate it so you can get access to the release pins. You need just the right side screw driver. Too large won't fit and too small will slip.You did remove the upper and lower column shrouds, didn't you?

 

[Jerms77]

As I stated earlier the wheel is locked. I cannot unlock it.

I removed the lower shroud, but the one immediately behind the wheel unbolts, but cannot come off until the steering wheel is removed. It does have acess holes in it to get to the pin that needs to be released, but lack of having an appropriate flat screwdriver which fits, trying to manuever blindly, and with the dash in the way (again, steering wheel was locked) was difficult. I un-bolted the shroud which gave it a small amount of play, and I was able to slip the screwdrivers in between the shroud and release the pins. This proved easier than using the access holes, which is designed primarily for the special tool anyway.

With an extra set of hands, I was able to remove the air bag using 4 flat head screwdrivers. Even when releasing the pins, (two on each side, 4 total) I had to stick another screwdriver in between the steering wheel frame, and the air bag housing to pry it out. Hence 4 hands, 4 screwdrivers. Since there is a lack of information about this particular task on these boards and internet in general, I took pictures and some video and I will be posting them when the job is complete.

 

[Ranger]

I removed one on a '99 SLS and I did not have the trouble that you did. I think they are the same. That said, I'm a little confused. You are replacing the column key lock, right? Why are you removing the air bag?

 

[Jerms77]

Because the steering wheel must be removed to access the cylinder lock. The air bag must come off first. I have everything torn down and the next step is to stick an awl or other small pointed tool into the cylinder lock release hole and remove the cylinder lock. It requires the key to be turned to the "Run" position but I cannot turn mine at all it's stuck in the lock position. I have been searching the web but cannot find a work around yet if anybody has any infomation on how to remove the cylinder lock without turning the key to the run position, please share. My car has been sitting for over a month now.

 

[Ranger]

Try wiggling the wheel while turning the key.

 

[Jerms77]

There is a tumbler missing. There is no turning the key. The wheel has already been removed. Besides that I tried that for a cpl days before I finally tore everything down.

 

[celm]

jerms how did u make out.im in the same boat,please help!!

 

[silverbackdw]

2001 dts. wife just went out to rub to the store and the key wouldn't go in

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how much does an ignition switch cost?

 

[MoistCabbage]

The key win't go into the lock cylinder? That has nothing to do with the switch.

 

[Ranger]

:welcome:

Yeah, that would be a tumbler aka lock cylinder.

how much does an ignition switch cost?

:noidea:


Call a dealer or check here for prices.
http://www.gmpartsgiant.com/cadillac-parts.html
http://parts.nalleygmc.com/default.aspx

or check with Chris (Rippy) over there >>>>>>>>>>>>>
He'll discount prices for members.

 

[basscatt]

or call a local locksmith -