Ignition Lock Cylinder

Removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder assembly on a 1992 Dodge Viper, including steering column cover disassembly and lock cylinder retention release.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
• Ignition lock cylinder retaining pin (if damaged) × 1 — Often included with lock cylinder

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
2. Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait at least 2 minutes to discharge airbag system.
3. Ensure the original ignition key is available and functional.
4. Adjust steering column to lowest tilt position for easier access to covers.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Lower Steering Column Cover
   Locate the fasteners securing the lower steering column cover. Remove the screws from the underside of the lower cover. Gently pull the lower cover away from the column, disengaging any retaining clips at the rear. Set the cover aside.
2. 2

   Remove Upper Steering Column Cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the fasteners securing the upper steering column cover. Remove the screws and lift the upper cover upward and away from the column. Note the position of any wiring clips or guide channels for reassembly.
3. 3

   Identify Lock Cylinder Housing
   With both column covers removed, locate the ignition lock cylinder housing on the right side of the steering column. Identify the small access hole for the lock cylinder retaining pin, typically located adjacent to the cylinder body near the key slot.
4. 4

   Position Lock Cylinder for Removal
   Insert the original key into the ignition lock cylinder. Turn the key to the correct position per the factory service manual (typically ACC or RUN) to align the internal cylinder tang and allow the retaining pin to be released. Verify the exact detent against the 1992 Viper FSM.
5. 5

   Release Lock Cylinder Retaining Pin
   Using a small flathead screwdriver or pick tool, insert the tool into the lock cylinder retaining pin access hole. Apply gentle but firm pressure to depress the spring-loaded retaining pin while maintaining the key in the RUN position. You should feel the pin compress approximately 1/8 inch.
6. 6

   Extract Lock Cylinder
   While maintaining pressure on the retaining pin with your tool, grasp the key and gently pull the lock cylinder straight out of the housing. The cylinder should slide out smoothly. If resistance is felt, verify the key is still in the RUN position and the retaining pin is fully depressed. Remove the key from the old cylinder once extracted.
7. 7

   Inspect Lock Cylinder Housing
   Examine the lock cylinder housing bore for any debris, damage, or wear. Clean the bore with compressed air or a clean lint-free cloth. Inspect the retaining pin mechanism inside the housing to ensure it moves freely and the spring returns it to the extended position.
8. 8

   Prepare New Lock Cylinder
   Insert the key into the new lock cylinder and turn it to the RUN position. Verify the cylinder tumblers move smoothly through all positions (LOCK, ACC, RUN, START). Ensure any included retaining pin is properly installed in the new cylinder body.
9. 9

   Install New Lock Cylinder
   With the key in the RUN position in the new lock cylinder, align the cylinder with the housing bore. Gently insert the cylinder straight into the housing, ensuring proper alignment of the actuator tang with the internal switch mechanism. Push the cylinder in until you hear or feel the retaining pin click into place, securing the cylinder.
10. 10

    Test Lock Cylinder Function
    Without reinstalling covers, test the new lock cylinder through all positions: LOCK, ACC, RUN, and START. Verify smooth operation in each detent and confirm the key can be removed only in the LOCK position. Ensure the steering column lock engages in the LOCK position.
11. 11

    Reinstall Upper Steering Column Cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, aligning any wiring clips or guide channels noted during removal. Install the screws and tighten them securely but avoid overtightening plastic bosses.
12. 12

    Reinstall Lower Steering Column Cover
    Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and column assembly. Engage any retaining clips at the rear first, then seat the cover fully. Install the screws and tighten them securely.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column cover fasteners are properly tightened and covers are fully seated with no gaps.
2. Reconnect battery negative terminal.
3. Test ignition function through all key positions before operating vehicle.

Verification

• Turn the key through all positions (LOCK, ACC, RUN, START) multiple times to verify smooth operation and proper detent engagement.
• Confirm the key can only be removed in the LOCK position.
• Verify the steering column lock engages when the key is turned to LOCK and the steering wheel is turned slightly.
• Check that all electrical accessories function properly in ACC and RUN positions.
• Ensure the starter engages properly in the START position (engine does not need to start if testing ignition only).
• Inspect steering column covers for proper fit and secure mounting with no rattles.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle