Ignition Lock Cylinder

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder on a 2007 Ram 3500 with steering column-mounted ignition.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
3. Turn steering wheel to center position
4. Ensure you have the original ignition key available

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove steering column shrouds
   Remove the lower knee bolster panel beneath the steering column by removing the retaining screws. Remove the upper and lower steering column shrouds by removing the Torx screws. The upper shroud typically has 2-3 screws accessible from underneath. Carefully separate the shrouds and set aside.
2. 2

   Disconnect steering column electrical connectors
   Locate and disconnect the electrical connectors for the ignition switch, which is mounted to the rear of the lock cylinder housing. Press the release tabs and carefully pull the connectors free. Note the routing and position of wiring for reassembly.
3. 3

   Remove ignition switch assembly
   Remove the two screws securing the ignition switch to the lock cylinder housing. The ignition switch is located on the side of the steering column. Carefully slide the switch off the lock cylinder actuator rod and set aside.
4. 4

   Prepare lock cylinder for removal
   Insert the original key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn it to the RUN position (second position, not START). This is critical as it retracts the internal locking pin that secures the cylinder in the housing.
5. 5

   Release lock cylinder retention mechanism
   While holding the key in the RUN position, locate the small release hole on the lock cylinder housing, typically found on the bottom or side of the housing near the key slot. Insert a small punch, paperclip, or similar tool approximately 1/8 inch into the release hole to depress the internal retaining pin.
6. 6

   Remove ignition lock cylinder
   While maintaining pressure on the release pin with your tool, gently pull the lock cylinder straight out of the housing while keeping the key in the RUN position. The cylinder should slide out smoothly. If resistance is felt, verify the key is in the correct position and the release pin is fully depressed.
7. 7

   Install new lock cylinder
   Insert the new key into the new lock cylinder and turn to the RUN position. Align the lock cylinder with the housing opening, ensuring the actuator tab on the back of the cylinder aligns with the slot in the housing. Push the cylinder firmly into the housing until you hear or feel a click, indicating the retaining pin has engaged.
8. 8

   Test lock cylinder operation
   Without the ignition switch installed, test the new lock cylinder through all positions (LOCK, ACC, RUN, START) to verify smooth operation and proper retention. The cylinder should not pull out when the key is turned away from the RUN position.
9. 9

   Reinstall ignition switch
   Turn the new key to the RUN position. Position the ignition switch over the actuator rod protruding from the back of the lock cylinder. Ensure the actuator engages properly with the switch mechanism. Install and tighten the two mounting screws to secure the switch to the housing.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical and reassemble column
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the ignition switch, ensuring they click into place. Route wiring as noted during disassembly. Reinstall the steering column shrouds and secure with Torx screws. Reinstall the knee bolster panel.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Ensure steering column shrouds are properly aligned before tightening screws to avoid cracking
3. Check that no wiring is pinched between shroud halves

Verification

• Reconnect battery negative terminal
• Test ignition lock cylinder through all positions (LOCK, ACC, RUN, START) multiple times to verify smooth operation
• Verify key can be removed only in the LOCK position
• Confirm all electrical accessories (radio, gauges, starter) function properly in their respective key positions
• Check that steering wheel locks when key is removed and turned
• Verify no warning lights related to ignition system appear on instrument cluster

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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