This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8, including steering column cover removal and programming considerations.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure you have the original working key before beginning disassembly
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 10 minutes for airbag system discharge
4. Adjust steering wheel to lowest tilt position for best access
5. Turn ignition lock to RUN position with key inserted (battery disconnected, key must remain in cylinder)

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Remove the lower dash panel below the steering column using panel removal tools. Locate and remove the T20 Torx screws securing the lower steering column cover (typically 2-3 screws). Separate the lower cover by pulling downward and away from the column. Disconnect any electrical connectors for switches mounted in the cover if equipped.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Locate the fasteners securing the upper steering column cover. Remove the T20 Torx screws (typically 2 screws at the bottom edge). Carefully separate the upper cover from the lower section by lifting upward, being mindful of any clips at the front near the instrument cluster. Set covers aside in a clean area.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect ignition lock cylinder wiring
   Locate the electrical connector for the ignition lock cylinder on the right side of the steering column. Press the release tab and disconnect the wiring harness. If equipped with a secondary connector for anti-theft transponder, disconnect it as well. Note the routing of wiring for reassembly.
4. 4

   Access the lock cylinder retaining pin
   With the key in the RUN position, locate the small access hole on the right side of the lock cylinder housing. This hole provides access to the retaining pin that secures the cylinder. You may need to use a flashlight to locate it clearly. The hole is approximately 2-3mm in diameter.
   ⚠Key must remain in RUN position throughout removal or retaining pin cannot be accessed properly
5. 5

   Release and remove lock cylinder
   Insert a small wire pick or straightened paperclip into the access hole and depress the retaining pin firmly. While holding the pin depressed, turn the key slightly back toward the ACC position and gently pull the lock cylinder straight out of the housing. The cylinder should slide out smoothly. If resistance is felt, verify the retaining pin is fully depressed and key is in correct position.
6. 6

   Inspect lock cylinder housing
   With cylinder removed, inspect the housing bore for any debris, dirt, or damaged components. Use compressed air to clean out the housing if needed. Check the condition of the electrical contacts inside the housing. Verify no broken plastic pieces remain in the housing from the old cylinder.
7. 7

   Prepare new lock cylinder
   Insert the key into the new lock cylinder and verify smooth operation through all positions (LOCK, ACC, RUN, START). Ensure the new retaining pin is properly installed in the cylinder body. If the cylinder came with a separate retaining pin, install it according to manufacturer instructions before insertion.
   ℹ️Some replacement cylinders come pre-coded to match existing keys, while others may require rekeying by a locksmith
8. 8

   Install new lock cylinder
   With the key inserted and turned to the RUN position, align the new lock cylinder with the housing opening. Ensure any alignment tabs or guides are properly positioned. Push the cylinder firmly into the housing until you hear or feel the retaining pin click into place. The cylinder should be fully seated and flush with the housing.
9. 9

   Test lock cylinder operation
   Before reconnecting wiring, test the mechanical operation of the new cylinder through all positions: LOCK, ACC, RUN, and START. Key should turn smoothly and spring back from START position. Verify the cylinder cannot be removed when in LOCK or ACC positions. Test key removal in LOCK position only.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connections
    Reconnect the ignition lock cylinder electrical connector, ensuring it clicks fully into place. Reconnect any secondary transponder connectors if equipped. Verify connectors are secure and wiring is routed properly without pinch points.
11. 11

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, aligning any clips at the front edge. Install and torque the cover screws to specification. Reconnect any electrical connectors for switches in the lower cover. Install the lower steering column cover, ensuring all clips engage properly, and install fasteners. Replace the lower dash panel below the steering column.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and test system
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition key through all positions and verify proper electrical function: accessory power in ACC, full power in RUN, and starter engagement in START. Check that all warning lights illuminate properly during the bulb check cycle. Test key removal in LOCK position.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated and fasteners are torqued to specification
2. Verify no loose tools or parts remain in the steering column area before final testing
3. Check that all electrical connectors are fully seated with audible clicks

Verification

• Turn key through all positions (LOCK, ACC, RUN, START) and verify smooth operation with proper detents
• Verify starter engages only in START position and releases when key is released
• Confirm key can only be removed in LOCK position
• Test all accessory functions (radio, power windows, etc.) in ACC and RUN positions
• Verify all dashboard warning lights function properly during startup
• Check that theft indicator light functions according to vehicle security system type
• If vehicle fails to start or shows security system warning, programming with Ford scan tool may be required

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