This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder assembly on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with 1.5L turbo engine, including steering column cover removal and ignition switch reconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder assembly × 1 — Use OEM Honda part number or equivalent
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Shear bolt set for lock cylinder × 1 — Usually included with new cylinder

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel to straight-ahead position
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 3 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
4. Adjust steering column to lowest and fully extended position for access
5. Ensure you have all new keys that came with replacement lock cylinder

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Remove the two Phillips screws from the bottom of the lower steering column cover. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing the retaining clips. Remove the cover and set aside. Note the location of all clips for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Remove the two Phillips screws securing the upper steering column cover. Gently separate the upper cover from the column, being careful not to damage the wiring for the steering wheel controls if equipped. Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the cover and remove.
   Torque spec

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

   Locate and access ignition switch connector
   Locate the ignition switch electrical connector on the right side of the steering column near the lock cylinder. Press the locking tab and disconnect the connector. On some models, you may need to release a secondary lock by sliding it with a flathead screwdriver before the main connector will release.
   ⚠Do not force the connector. Ensure the secondary lock is fully released before pulling.
4. 4

   Insert key and turn to ACC position
   Insert the original key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn it to the ACC (accessory) position. This aligns the internal lock mechanism and allows the cylinder to be removed from the housing once the bracket is detached.
   ℹ️If the original key is lost or the cylinder won't turn, you must drill out the shear bolts without turning the cylinder, then extract it.
5. 5

   Identify shear bolt locations
   Locate the two shear bolts securing the ignition lock cylinder bracket to the steering column. These are located on the underside of the lock cylinder housing. The bolt heads are designed to shear off during installation and will have a smooth, rounded appearance.
   ℹ️Take a photo or note the exact position of the lock cylinder bracket for proper alignment during reinstallation.
6. 6

   Drill out first shear bolt
   Using a 1/8 inch drill bit, carefully drill into the center of the first shear bolt. Drill only deep enough to penetrate the bolt head (approximately 1/4 inch). Once the head is weakened, use a flathead screwdriver to pry it off or break it away from the bolt shaft. Use a punch to tap out the remaining bolt shaft if necessary.
   ⚠️Wear safety glasses. Metal shavings will be produced during drilling.
   ⚠Drill straight and centered on the bolt. Do not drill deeper than necessary to avoid damaging the bracket threads or steering column.
7. 7

   Drill out second shear bolt
   Repeat the drilling process for the second shear bolt. Drill the center of the bolt head with a 1/8 inch bit, remove the head, and extract the remaining shaft. Ensure both bolt remnants are completely removed from the bracket holes.
   ⚠Clean all metal shavings from the steering column area before proceeding.
8. 8

   Remove old ignition lock cylinder
   With both shear bolts removed and the key in the ACC position, pull the ignition lock cylinder assembly straight out from the steering column. The cylinder and bracket should come out as one unit. If resistance is felt, verify both shear bolts are completely removed and the key is in the correct position.
   ℹ️Some wiggling may be necessary. Do not use excessive force as this may indicate a bolt remnant is still engaged.
9. 9

   Prepare new ignition lock cylinder
   Remove the new ignition lock cylinder from packaging. Verify that it includes two new shear bolts. Insert one of your new keys into the cylinder and turn to the ACC position. Align the new cylinder assembly with the steering column mounting bracket position, matching the orientation noted during removal.
   ℹ️Ensure the electrical connector on the new cylinder is positioned to align with the harness connector.
10. 10

    Install new lock cylinder assembly
    With the key in the ACC position, slide the new lock cylinder assembly into the steering column until it is fully seated against the column housing. Ensure the bracket aligns perfectly with the mounting holes. The cylinder should sit flush with no gaps.
    ⚠Verify proper alignment before installing shear bolts. Misalignment will cause binding and difficulty turning the key.
11. 11

    Install and tighten shear bolts
    Thread both new shear bolts into the bracket holes by hand. Tighten each bolt gradually in an alternating pattern using a socket or wrench. Continue tightening until the heads shear off, which is the designed torque specification. You will feel the head break away when proper torque is achieved. This typically occurs between 15-20 Nm but the shear design ensures correct torque.
    ⚠Tighten gradually and alternately. Do not fully tighten one bolt before starting the other as this may cause misalignment.
    ℹ️The shearing of the bolt heads is normal and indicates proper installation torque has been reached.
12. 12

    Reconnect ignition switch connector
    Reconnect the ignition switch electrical connector to the lock cylinder. Ensure the connector clicks firmly into place and any secondary locks are properly engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is secure.
13. 13

    Test lock cylinder operation
    Before reinstalling covers, insert the key and test all positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, and START. The key should turn smoothly through all positions and return to LOCK. Verify the key can be removed only in the LOCK position. Test with all keys provided with the new cylinder.
    ⚠If the key binds or does not turn smoothly, the cylinder may be misaligned and will need to be reinstalled.
14. 14

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Reconnect any electrical connectors to the upper cover if applicable. Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all alignment tabs engage properly. Install the two Phillips screws and tighten to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
15. 15

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Position the lower steering column cover, ensuring all retaining clips align with their receivers on the column. Press firmly to engage all clips. Install the two Phillips screws and tighten to specification. Verify the cover is secure with no gaps or loose areas.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten securely
2. Return steering wheel and column to normal operating position
3. Verify all keys operate the ignition smoothly through all positions
4. Check that all trim panels are secure and properly aligned

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify all dashboard warning lights illuminate normally
• Start the engine to confirm the ignition switch and immobilizer system are functioning properly
• Test that the key can only be removed when in the LOCK position
• Verify steering wheel locks when key is removed (turn wheel to engage lock)
• Test all positions multiple times with each key: LOCK, ACC, ON, START
• Ensure no rattles or loose parts around the steering column
• If immobilizer light flashes or engine won't start, key programming may be required - consult dealer or qualified locksmith

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