Ignition Lock Cylinder

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder on a 2009 Aston Martin DB9, including steering column trim removal and lock cylinder extraction.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Ignition lock cylinder retaining pin (if not included with cylinder) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground with parking brake engaged and rear wheels chocked
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key if available
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 10 minutes for airbag system discharge
4. Adjust steering wheel to lowest position and telescope fully forward for maximum working clearance

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column trim cover beneath the steering column. Remove the fasteners securing the lower cover (verify exact count, size, and type against Aston Martin service documentation - check the perimeter and underside of the cover for all attachment points). Gently pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing any remaining clips. Check for and disconnect any cables or secondary controls routed through the lower cover only if present on this vehicle; verify routing against Aston Martin service documentation.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the fasteners securing the upper steering column cover (verify exact count, size, and type against Aston Martin service documentation; these may be accessible from below or at the sides). Remove these fasteners. Carefully separate the upper cover from the column, noting any clips along the seam. Carefully separate the upper cover from the column and remove it; verify in Aston Martin service documentation whether steering wheel or airbag removal is required to clear the cover. Note: Maneuver the upper cover clear of the column and steering wheel, and set it aside (steering wheel removal may be required for clearance - verify against Aston Martin service documentation).
3. 3

   Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector at the rear of the ignition switch assembly mounted to the lock cylinder housing. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight back to disconnect. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Access lock cylinder release mechanism
   Note: The 2009 DB9 uses the Aston Martin Emotion Control Unit (ECU) glass fob inserted into a dash-mounted slot rather than a conventional steering-column mechanical key lock cylinder. Before proceeding, verify in Aston Martin service documentation whether this vehicle has a traditional turnable lock cylinder or an electronic ignition module, as the removal method differs entirely. Do not assume a mechanical tumbler-and-key arrangement. If no key is available, do not attempt to drill or force the assembly; the 2009 DB9 ignition/key system is immobilizer-linked and must be serviced per Aston Martin service documentation. Consult Aston Martin service documentation for the specific procedure for keyless removal and required immobilizer reprogramming. Note: If no key/ECU fob is available, do not attempt to drill the assembly. The 2009 DB9 ignition module is an electronic unit and removal/replacement without the proper key must be performed per official Aston Martin service documentation - consult Aston Martin service procedures for keyless removal and immobilizer handling.
5. 5

   Release and remove lock cylinder
   Consult Aston Martin service documentation for the exact lock cylinder / ignition module release method on this vehicle. If a mechanical release pin is present, verify its location and the correct tool size against OEM documentation before attempting extraction; do not assume a generic spring-pin style cylinder. Extract the cylinder/module only per the documented procedure.dle. The cylinder should slide out smoothly once the retaining pin is fully depressed.
6. 6

   Inspect lock cylinder housing
   With the lock cylinder removed, inspect the housing bore for debris, damage, or worn components. Clean the housing with a lint-free cloth if necessary. Verify that the ignition switch actuator (the plastic or metal cam follower) moves freely and is not damaged. Check that the new lock cylinder includes a retaining pin or that the original retaining pin is present in the housing.
7. 7

   Install new lock cylinder
   Insert the key into the new lock cylinder and turn to the ON/ACC position to retract the locking pawl. Align the lock cylinder with the housing bore, ensuring the actuator slot on the rear of the cylinder aligns with the ignition switch actuator. Slide the cylinder fully into the housing until it seats completely. The retaining pin should click into place automatically when the cylinder reaches full insertion. Turn the key to OFF position and attempt to remove the cylinder without depressing the release pin to verify proper engagement.
8. 8

   Reconnect ignition switch connector
   Reconnect the electrical connector to the ignition switch, ensuring it clicks into place fully. Gently tug on the connector to verify secure engagement. Route the harness back to its original position using any existing clips or guides.
9. 9

   Test ignition operation before reinstalling trim
   Temporarily reconnect the negative battery terminal. Insert the key and test all ignition positions (OFF, ACC, ON, START). Verify whether the 2009 DB9 is equipped with an electronic steering column lock; if so, confirm it engages/disengages per the Aston Martin operating sequence. Verify the expected behavior against Aston Martin service documentation, as not all models of this era have an electronic steering lock. Verify that the starter engages in START position. If all functions operate correctly, disconnect the negative battery terminal again before proceeding with trim reinstallation. Note: Verify the steering lock operates correctly per the vehicle's electronic steering lock behavior (engaging/disengaging as designed), consulting Aston Martin service documentation for the expected operation on this model.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, aligning any locating tabs with their corresponding slots. Install the Torx fasteners and tighten securely (hand-tight, do not overtighten plastic trim components). Position the lower steering column cover, reconnecting any cables or secondary controls that were disconnected during removal (only if present on this vehicle - verify routing against Aston Martin service documentation). Align the cover with all mounting points and install the Torx fasteners, tightening securely.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all Torx fasteners in steering column covers are tightened but not overtightened to avoid cracking plastic trim
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Reconnect negative battery terminal and tighten securely
4. Test all ignition functions including steering lock operation, accessory power, and starter engagement
5. If the vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer system and the new lock cylinder has a different key, vehicle reprogramming by an Aston Martin dealer or qualified technician with appropriate diagnostic tools will be required

Verification

• Key turns smoothly through all ignition positions (OFF, ACC, ON, START) without binding
• Steering lock engages when key is removed and disengages when key is inserted and turned
• Starter engages normally in START position
• Key cannot be removed unless ignition is in OFF position and steering lock is engaged
• All steering column trim panels are secure with no rattles or gaps
• Dashboard warning lights illuminate normally in ON position and extinguish after engine start
• If immobilizer-equipped, verify engine starts and runs (may require dealer programming if cylinder/key was changed)

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