Ignition Lock Cylinder

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder on a 2018-2024 Honda Accord with 1.5L turbo engine, including disassembly of the steering column shrouds and disconnecting the ignition switch.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column shroud clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to LOCK position and remove key
3. Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal - wait 3 minutes for airbag system to discharge
4. Adjust steering wheel to lowest and fully extended position for access
5. Gather all tools and new ignition lock cylinder assembly before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column shroud
   Locate the cover screws on the underside of the lower steering column shroud. Remove the two screws securing the lower shroud using a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the lower shroud down and away from the steering column to release any remaining clips.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column shroud
   With the lower shroud removed, locate the upper shroud cover screws. Remove the screws and carefully separate the upper shroud from the column. Note the position of any wiring harnesses routed through or around the shroud. Use tape to mark routing if needed for reassembly.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Locate and disconnect ignition switch connector
   Identify the ignition switch electrical connector on the side of the ignition lock cylinder assembly. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight out to disconnect. Do not pull on wires. Set connector aside where it will not be damaged.
4. 4

   Insert key and rotate to ACC position
   Insert the original key into the ignition lock cylinder. Turn the key to the ACC (accessory) position - this is one click clockwise from LOCK. The cylinder must be in this position to allow removal. Do not force if key does not turn smoothly.
   ⚠If key will not turn to ACC position, verify steering wheel is not loaded against steering lock - gently wiggle wheel while turning key
5. 5

   Locate and depress cylinder release pin
   With key in ACC position, locate the small release hole on the side of the ignition lock cylinder housing. Insert a small punch or 1/8 inch drill bit into the hole approximately 1/2 inch until you feel the release pin depress. Maintain pressure on the release pin.
   ⚠Do not use excessive force when inserting punch - the release pin requires only light pressure to depress
6. 6

   Remove ignition lock cylinder
   While maintaining pressure on the release pin with the punch, gently pull the ignition lock cylinder straight out of the housing while holding the key. The cylinder should slide out smoothly. If resistance is felt, verify the key is in ACC position and release pin is fully depressed. Remove the key from the old cylinder once removed.
7. 7

   Inspect ignition lock housing
   With the cylinder removed, inspect the housing bore for debris, damage, or worn components. Clean the housing bore with a clean lint-free cloth. Check that the ignition switch actuator inside the housing moves freely and returns to the proper position.
8. 8

   Prepare new ignition lock cylinder
   Remove the new ignition lock cylinder from packaging. Insert one of the new keys into the new cylinder and verify it turns smoothly through all positions (LOCK, ACC, ON, START). Do not force the cylinder if it binds. Verify the release pin mechanism functions by turning to ACC and testing with a punch.
9. 9

   Install new ignition lock cylinder
   Insert the new key into the new cylinder and turn to ACC position. Align the cylinder with the housing bore and slide it straight in until it seats fully and you hear/feel a click as the release pin engages. Turn the key through all positions to verify proper installation. Return key to LOCK and remove it. The cylinder should now be locked in place.
   ⚠Ensure cylinder is fully seated and locked - if it can be pulled out without using the release pin procedure, it is not properly installed
10. 10

    Reconnect ignition switch connector
    Reconnect the ignition switch electrical connector to the new ignition lock cylinder assembly. Ensure the connector clicks into place and the locking tab is fully engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is secure.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column shroud
    Position the upper steering column shroud back onto the steering column, routing any wiring harnesses in their original positions. Align the shroud mounting points and install the cover screws. Tighten screws to specification without over-tightening.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column shroud
    Position the lower steering column shroud and align the mounting points and clips with the upper shroud. Press firmly to engage any clips, then install the cover screws and tighten to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and test system
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Insert the new key and verify it operates smoothly through all positions: LOCK to ACC to ON to START and back. Test that the key can be removed only in LOCK position. Verify the steering wheel locks when key is removed and unlocks when key is inserted and turned.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column shrouds are properly seated with no gaps
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully engaged and locked
3. Test new key operation multiple times before closing hood
4. Store all new keys in a safe location and consider programming spare key to vehicle if equipped with immobilizer

Verification

• Turn ignition key through all positions - should move smoothly without binding or excessive force
• Verify key can only be removed when in LOCK position
• Confirm steering wheel locks when key is removed and unlocks when key is turned to ACC
• Check that all indicator lights on instrument cluster illuminate properly when key is turned to ON position
• Start the engine to verify ignition switch and starter circuit function correctly
• Verify no dashboard warning lights related to steering or immobilizer system remain illuminated after starting

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