Ignition Lock Cylinder

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, including removal of the steering column covers and disabling the theft deterrent system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder assembly × 1 — GM 23479405 or equivalent
• Ignition lock cylinder retaining pin (if not included with cylinder) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
4. Adjust steering wheel to lowest tilt position for better access
5. Gather all tools and new ignition lock cylinder

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Remove the two screws securing the lower steering column cover using a Torx T20 driver. Pull the lower cover down and away from the column. Remove the upper steering column cover by releasing the retaining clips at the rear and lifting upward.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Access ignition lock cylinder housing
   Locate the ignition lock cylinder housing on the right side of the steering column. Identify the electrical connector at the rear of the cylinder housing and disconnect it by pressing the release tab and pulling straight back.
3. 3

   Position cylinder for removal
   Reconnect the negative battery cable temporarily. Insert the ignition key and turn it to the RUN position (not START). This aligns the lock cylinder internally and allows access to the retaining pin.
4. 4

   Release cylinder retaining pin
   Locate the small hole on the face of the lock cylinder housing (near the key slot). Insert a wire pick or straightened paper clip into the hole approximately 1/4 inch deep. While pressing the release pin inward, turn the key back to the ACC position and maintain pressure on the release pin.
5. 5

   Remove old ignition lock cylinder
   While maintaining pressure on the release pin with the wire pick, pull the ignition lock cylinder straight out of the housing. The key should remain in the cylinder during removal. Once removed, turn the key to OFF and remove it from the old cylinder. Disconnect the battery negative cable again before proceeding.
6. 6

   Inspect lock cylinder housing
   Inspect the lock cylinder housing bore for any debris, damage, or worn components. Clean the housing with a shop towel. Verify the lock mechanism operates freely and is not jammed. Check that the electrical connector terminals are clean and undamaged.
7. 7

   Prepare new ignition lock cylinder
   Insert the existing key into the new lock cylinder and turn it to the RUN position. Verify that the retaining pin is properly seated in the cylinder and will release when the key is turned. Do not force the key at any point.
8. 8

   Install new ignition lock cylinder
   With the key in the RUN position in the new cylinder, align the cylinder with the housing and slide it straight into the bore. Push firmly until you hear or feel a click indicating the retaining pin has engaged. Turn the key through all positions (ACC, RUN, START) to verify proper operation, then return to OFF and remove the key.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Connect the electrical connector to the rear of the lock cylinder housing. Ensure the connector locks into place with an audible click. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the connector.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all clips align properly. Press down firmly until all clips engage. Install the lower steering column cover and secure with the two retaining screws, tightening in a cross pattern to specified torque.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and perform relearn
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. The theft deterrent system will require a relearn procedure. Connect a diagnostic scan tool and follow the manufacturer's procedure to program the new ignition lock cylinder to the vehicle's body control module (BCM) and powertrain control module (PCM).

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated and secured
2. Verify all electrical connections are fully engaged
3. Confirm steering column tilt and telescope functions operate normally

Verification

• Turn the ignition key through all positions (OFF, ACC, RUN, START) and verify smooth operation with no binding
• Start the engine and verify it cranks and starts normally without extended cranking
• Verify the theft deterrent light operates correctly (illuminates briefly at key-on then extinguishes)
• Test that the key can be removed only in the OFF position and steering wheel locks properly
• Verify all steering column functions (tilt, telescope) operate normally
• Check that all dashboard warning lights function properly and no theft deterrent codes are present

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