This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder on a 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L I4 engine, including removal of steering column covers and electrical components.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait minimum 3 minutes for airbag system to discharge
3. Adjust steering wheel to lowest and most extended position for maximum access
4. Ensure you have the original key for the ignition lock cylinder

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the Phillips head screws securing the lower cover (typically 2-3 screws). Gently pull the lower cover away from the column, disconnecting any retaining clips. Set aside the cover and screws in a safe location.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the screws securing the upper steering column cover. Remove these screws and carefully separate the upper cover from the steering column. You may need to tilt the steering wheel or wiggle the cover slightly to clear the ignition cylinder area. Disconnect the cover halves if they are joined.
   Torque spec

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

   Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the back of the ignition switch assembly. Press the release tab and carefully pull the connector straight off. Note the connector orientation for reassembly. If equipped with multiple connectors (ignition switch and key warning), disconnect all related connectors.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires; grasp the connector body only to prevent wire damage
4. 4

   Remove ignition switch mounting bracket
   Locate the bracket bolts securing the ignition switch assembly to the steering column. These are typically located on the side or bottom of the assembly. Remove the bracket bolts using the appropriate socket. Support the ignition assembly as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts19 Nm (14 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Position cylinder for removal
   Insert the original key into the ignition lock cylinder. Turn the key to the ACC (accessory) position. This aligns the internal components and allows the cylinder to be removed. Do not force the key or cylinder; it should turn smoothly to ACC position.
   ℹ️The cylinder can only be removed when in the ACC position as this retracts the locking pin
6. 6

   Release and remove lock cylinder
   With the key in ACC position, locate the small hole or slot on the ignition cylinder housing (typically on the bottom or side). Insert a small flathead screwdriver or pick tool into the release hole and press the retaining pin while gently pulling the cylinder out with the key. The cylinder should slide out smoothly. If resistance is felt, ensure the key is fully in ACC position and the release pin is fully depressed.
   ⚠Keep fingers clear of small springs and detent components that may release during cylinder removal
7. 7

   Inspect and clean cylinder housing
   With the old cylinder removed, inspect the cylinder housing for debris, corrosion, or damage. Use a flashlight to examine the interior. Clean any dirt or debris from the housing using a wire brush or compressed air. Check that the retaining pin mechanism moves freely and is not damaged.
   ℹ️This is a good time to verify the new cylinder includes all necessary clips and retaining components
8. 8

   Install new lock cylinder
   Insert the new key into the new lock cylinder and turn to ACC position. Align the cylinder with the housing and slide it in until you hear or feel the retaining pin click into place. Remove the key and verify the cylinder is locked in position by attempting to pull it out (it should not move). Reinsert the key and test rotation through all positions (LOCK, ACC, ON, START).
   ⚠Ensure the cylinder is fully seated and the retaining pin has engaged before proceeding
9. 9

   Reinstall ignition switch bracket
   Position the ignition switch assembly back onto the steering column. Align the mounting holes and hand-thread the bracket bolts to prevent cross-threading. Tighten the bracket bolts to specification using a torque wrench in a crossing pattern to ensure even seating.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts19 Nm (14 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the ignition switch assembly, ensuring each connector clicks securely into place. Verify proper seating by gently tugging on each connector. Route any wiring away from moving steering components.
    ℹ️Ensure connectors are properly aligned before applying force to prevent pin damage
11. 11

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all clips and tabs are properly aligned. Install and hand-tighten the cover screws. Position the lower cover and align it with the upper cover and steering column. Install the lower cover screws. Tighten all cover screws to specification, being careful not to overtighten plastic components.
    Torque spec

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

    Reconnect battery and test operation
    Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten securely. Without pressing the brake pedal, insert the key and test all ignition positions: LOCK, ACC (accessory lights should illuminate), ON (dash lights and accessories should activate), and START. With foot on brake, start the engine to verify full functionality. Test that the key can be removed only in LOCK position and that the steering wheel locks when key is removed.

Reassembly

1. Reassembly is covered in the procedure steps above
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and secured
3. Verify steering column covers are properly aligned and all mounting points are secure
4. Check that no tools or parts were left in the steering column area

Verification

• Test key operation through all ignition positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, and START
• Verify engine starts normally and all dash warning lights illuminate appropriately
• Confirm key can only be removed in LOCK position
• Test that steering wheel locks when key is removed and in LOCK position
• Verify all steering column cover screws are tight and covers do not rattle
• Check that turn signal and wiper stalks operate without interference from covers
• Ensure no warning lights remain illuminated on the dash after starting

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