Ignition Lock Cylinder

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder on a 2017 Maserati Levante, including steering column cover removal and electrical connector disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 15 minutes for airbag system discharge.
3. Turn steering wheel to straight-ahead position.
4. Ensure ignition key is available and can turn lock cylinder to ACC position.
5. Prepare clean workspace to organize small screws and clips.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the Torx screws securing the lower cover (typically 3-4 screws). Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing any retaining clips. Set aside with screws.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover screws (typically 2-3 Torx screws at the bottom edge). Remove these screws and gently lift the upper cover up and away from the steering column. Disconnect any electrical connectors for steering wheel controls if present. Set aside with hardware.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Locate ignition lock cylinder assembly
   With covers removed, identify the ignition lock cylinder housing on the right side of the steering column. Note the electrical connector attached to the lock cylinder assembly and the metal bracket securing it to the column.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the ignition lock cylinder assembly. Press the release tab and carefully disconnect the connector. If connector is secured with a bolt, remove the bolt first using appropriate Torx bit. Move wiring harness aside to provide clear access.
   Torque spec

   Connector Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove ignition lock cylinder mounting bracket
   Locate the mounting bracket bolts securing the ignition lock cylinder assembly to the steering column (typically 2 bolts). Using appropriate Torx bit, remove these bolts completely. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts22 Nm (16 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Release ignition lock cylinder
   Insert the ignition key into the lock cylinder and turn to the ACC (accessory) position. This releases the internal locking mechanism. Locate the small release pin hole on the lock cylinder body (usually on underside or side of cylinder).
   ℹ️The release pin hole may be very small and require good lighting to locate. Consult service manual diagrams if needed.
7. 7

   Extract ignition lock cylinder
   While key is in ACC position, insert a small pin punch or ignition lock cylinder removal tool into the release hole. Apply gentle pressure while simultaneously pulling the lock cylinder assembly straight out from the steering column housing. The cylinder should slide out smoothly. If resistance is felt, verify key is in correct position and release pin is fully depressed.
8. 8

   Prepare new ignition lock cylinder
   Remove new ignition lock cylinder from packaging. Verify it matches the old unit in physical dimensions and connector configuration. Insert the key into the new cylinder and turn to ACC position to prepare for installation.
9. 9

   Install new ignition lock cylinder
   With key in ACC position in new cylinder, align the cylinder with the steering column housing opening. Ensure any alignment tabs or guides are properly positioned. Slide the cylinder straight into the housing until it seats completely. Turn key to LOCK position to engage internal mechanism. Remove key and verify cylinder is retained.
10. 10

    Reinstall mounting bracket
    Position the ignition lock cylinder mounting bracket back onto the steering column. Thread in the bracket bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Torque bracket bolts to specification in a cross-pattern if multiple bolts present.
    Torque spec

    Bracket Bolts22 Nm (16 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Route the wiring harness back to the ignition lock cylinder. Connect the electrical connector to the lock cylinder assembly, ensuring it clicks into place securely. If connector bolt was removed, reinstall and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Connector Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover back onto the column, reconnecting any steering control connectors if applicable. Install and hand-tighten the upper cover screws. Position the lower cover, ensuring all clips align properly, and install lower cover screws. Torque all cover screws to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and program
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The new ignition lock cylinder must now be programmed to the vehicle's immobilizer system using Maserati diagnostic equipment. Without programming, the vehicle will not start even with correct key.
    ⚠Programming requires Maserati-specific diagnostic equipment and access to vehicle security systems. This step typically requires dealership or qualified technician assistance.

Reassembly

1. Verify all steering column covers are properly seated with no gaps or misalignment.
2. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the steering column area.
3. Check that all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked.
4. Confirm ignition key operates smoothly through all positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, START.

Verification

• Test ignition key in all positions (LOCK, ACC, ON, START) to verify smooth operation without binding.
• Verify steering column covers are secure with no rattles when moving steering wheel.
• Confirm vehicle starts normally after immobilizer programming is completed.
• Test that key can be removed only in LOCK position and steering wheel locks when key is removed.
• Verify all steering column functions operate normally including turn signals, wipers, and cruise control.
• Check for proper illumination of instrument cluster when key is turned to ON position.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle