This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine, including steering column cover removal and lock cylinder extraction.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Ignition lock cylinder retaining pin × 1 — Often included with cylinder

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal; wait 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
4. Adjust steering wheel to lowest tilt position and telescope fully out for maximum access
5. Ensure adequate lighting in footwell area

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the two T20 Torx screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove both screws and set aside. Gently pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing the retaining clips. The cover separates into halves; remove the lower half first.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Identify the T20 Torx screws securing the upper column cover (typically two screws at the top). Remove the screws and carefully lift the upper cover away from the steering column. Disconnect any electrical connectors for the ignition ring or shifter indicators if present on this cover section.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Access ignition lock cylinder housing
   With covers removed, locate the ignition lock cylinder housing on the right side of the steering column. Identify the electrical connector attached to the ignition switch at the rear of the lock cylinder assembly. Press the tab and disconnect this connector.
   ℹ️Take a photo of connector orientation before disconnecting to aid reassembly.
4. 4

   Insert key and rotate to RUN position
   Reconnect the negative battery terminal temporarily. Insert the original ignition key into the lock cylinder and turn it to the RUN position (second click, not START). This position retracts the locking pin mechanism internally, allowing cylinder removal. Do not turn to ACC position as the pin will not retract fully.
   ⚠The cylinder cannot be removed in any position other than RUN. Forcing removal will damage the steering column lock mechanism.
5. 5

   Locate and depress cylinder release pin
   With key in RUN position, locate the small release hole on the lock cylinder housing (typically at the 6 o'clock position beneath the cylinder body). Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or pick tool into the release hole approximately 3-4mm until you feel the internal detent pin depress.
   ℹ️The release pin requires firm but controlled pressure. You should feel a distinct click when properly depressed.
6. 6

   Extract ignition lock cylinder
   While maintaining pressure on the release pin with the screwdriver, gently pull the ignition key and cylinder assembly straight out from the steering column housing. The cylinder should slide out smoothly. If resistance is felt, verify key is in RUN position and release pin is fully depressed. Remove and set aside the old cylinder.
   ⚠Do not rotate the key while extracting or the locking pin will re-engage.
7. 7

   Prepare new lock cylinder
   Inspect the new ignition lock cylinder assembly. Verify the new cylinder comes with keys and confirm they operate smoothly through all positions (LOCK, ACC, RUN, START). Check that the release pin is present and properly seated in the new cylinder housing. Insert the new key and rotate to RUN position.
   ℹ️Some replacement cylinders require coding or programming. Verify with parts supplier if additional procedures are needed for your specific application.
8. 8

   Install new ignition lock cylinder
   With the new key inserted and turned to RUN position, align the cylinder with the steering column housing opening. Ensure the anti-rotation tab on the cylinder aligns with the slot in the housing. Push the cylinder straight into the housing until it seats fully and you hear or feel the retaining pin click into place. Turn key to OFF and verify it returns smoothly.
   ⚠Ensure proper alignment of the anti-rotation features. Forcing misaligned cylinder will damage internal components.
9. 9

   Test cylinder operation and reconnect electrical
   Cycle the new ignition cylinder through all positions multiple times: OFF to ACC to RUN to START and back. Verify smooth operation and positive detents in each position. Verify steering lock engages when key is removed. Reconnect the ignition switch electrical connector to the rear of the lock cylinder assembly, ensuring the tab clicks securely.
   ℹ️The steering wheel should lock when key is removed and turned. If it does not, the cylinder is not properly installed.
10. 10

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, routing any electrical connectors through their proper openings. Align the screw holes and install the T20 Torx screws finger-tight initially. Torque the cover screws to specification using a torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall lower steering column covers
    Align the lower steering column cover halves and snap together around the column, ensuring all retaining clips engage properly. Install the T20 Torx screws through the underside of the lower cover and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Final electrical verification
    Disconnect negative battery terminal again. Wait 10 seconds, then reconnect and tighten securely. Turn ignition to RUN position (do not start) and verify all dashboard warning lights illuminate normally, indicating proper ignition switch electrical operation. Check that all steering column functions operate correctly including turn signals, wipers, and cruise control if so equipped.

Reassembly

1. Verify all steering column covers are securely fastened with no gaps or loose clips
2. Confirm all fasteners are torqued to specification and none were missed during reassembly
3. Test ignition cylinder operation through all key positions before starting engine

Verification

• Turn ignition key through all positions (LOCK, ACC, RUN, START) and verify smooth operation with positive detents
• Verify steering wheel locks when key is removed and turned to LOCK position
• Start engine and confirm normal operation; verify no warning lights remain illuminated on dashboard
• Test all steering column-mounted controls for proper function
• Verify both keys operate the new lock cylinder smoothly
• Check that steering column covers are secure with no rattles or loose components

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