IMPORTANT NOTE: If your "Theft System" light in the dash flashes with the key in the 'on' position but the vehicle does not start, leave the key 'on' for about 10 minutes until the light stops flashing then turn the key to off then start the vehicle.
Something like that can be pretty hard to track down sometimes but normally the issue has to do with the ignition switch acting up 9 times out of 10. Bringing it into a shop and having them diagnose the issue will be your best bet at this point.
great info definitely a lot better than taking it to a mechanic to rip you off nothing like being mechanically inclined with assistance from people like yourselves it's greatly appreciated keep up the great work.
This was a good video. Took me 20 minutes. Make sure the transmission selector is in "Park" to pull out the key. Its easier to put it into D1 in order to take out the radio, ect. but don't forget to put it back in Park to check everything out. This install is very easy. The dealer wanted $500 to do this!
Thank you for posting this!!! I was able to follow your steps and take care of it. I didn't have to replace it just clean and use some WD-40 to lube it, now it works smooth as butter. Thanks again! Btw, this also works on a 2004 model.
thanks for the help I am a tech but never did a lock cyl in a malibu. Glad I watched this video. Identifix I use at work says to take out the instrument cluster. lol
@browniesareg You would need to find a way to turn the ignition so that you can change it. You could try wiggling the key up and down as you try to turn the ignition, to see if that works. Hope this helps you out.
Thanks. They somehow disconnected the antenna and say they didn't touch it, but I am taking it back for them to fix. Oh -- and changing the Ignition switch didn't solve my starting problem anyway. $337 later I'm no better off than when I started, plus I have to find the time to go back to get the radio fixed. Thank you for responding to my initial question.
Update on 02 chevy impala. we ended up replacing the starter the ring was jammed in the teeth and replaced ignition tumbler and was able to get security to go off it ran fine for a day and a half then wouldn't want to start. the fly wheel spins but the engine does not want to turn over. we think it might be a broken crankshaft. what do you guys think? you have helped us out so much and really appreciate the speedy replies you have given us.
We currently do not have an auto repair video that shows you how to make this particular repair. We do carry the replacement ignition on our website Part Number: 1AZIS00026 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
We currently do not have an auto repair video that shows this particular repair. We'll keep this request in mind during any future repairs that we may make on this vehicle. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
It may have taken them that long if they weren't used to the removal process. You may want to check the antenna on the back to see if it has become loose.
The procedure shown in this video should be the same, or very similar to your application. If you click on the link in the video, you can purchase the ignition show in the video for your 2002 Chevy Impala. Hope this helps you out. Have a great day 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
RE: IMPORTANT NOTE. I have had the Theft System problem forever and it is really frustrating when I am running late, or even worse, when I am stuck sitting in my car in the dark. Think... time change + dedicated teacher + bad neighborhood. It used to happen at least once a week. I heard of some solutions by installing a switch or a remote start. What do you know about these options. Your videos are so easy to follow! Thank you for that!
Beginning at 1:56, you turned the key to the on position and then pressed a screwdriver into the small rectangular hole. What if I can't turn the key to the on position (because it won't turn)? It seems that without that step, there is nothing to push in the small rectangular hole?
Thank you for the video. If all you're doing is replacing the cylinder, is it necessary to have reprogramming performed? I am working on a 2003 Chevy Malibu LS.
@browniesareg I"m having the same problem, have to wiggle the steering wheel, and the transmission shift arm too. I know that someday it's not gonna turn. Takes a long time sometimes. This is my first video, trying to see if I can fix it myself. GOod luck!
The only trouble I had was I didn't know about the 10 min wait for the anti-thief light to turn off. Once the light turn off the car started up no problems. Thanks for the video.
A problem like this will most likely require the key tumbler to be drilled out so the cylinder can be spun. Without the cylinder moving, removal of the lock will be impossible.
If the car ran fine when you turned it off last, you may want to see if it's getting spark and fuel to the motor. If the camshaft broke while you were driving it, the car would have just died and more than likely have been pretty loud.
Without being able to get the key to turn somehow, I'm not sure how you would be able to remove the ignition. You might need to have a locksmith take a look at it to see if they can get it to turn.
Absolutely cannot turn tumbler to any position, any tips here?? Key has been a problem for a while, usually shaking up n down works, not anymore. Great video, thanks
thank you so much for the link. I also have an 04 impala (never getting an impala again) that has difficulty shifting from first to second when pulling out of the drive but runs smoothly after. any ideas
I need to know how you take the whole unit out that the electrical wires hook to that the ignition or the gear shift is hooked to how do you get that out
When you try to pull it out, make sure that the screw driver used to push that button up on the side,isn't holding it in place preventing it from coming out. You may have to wiggle it a bit. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
We are replacing the ignition switch on a 2002 impala, will we have to do the re learn procedure? And also are they pretty much the same ignition switch 02 Malibu and 02 impala.
Theresa my car is doing the same, but I’ve learned that if I move it up and down then it will work. Is there any lights or sounds that come on when you open the door? The shop that I picked it up from said they had to replace a fuse because it was draining the battery while it sat. Hope this might give a little more insight, but if not keep up the search. The answer is out there somewhere.
hey my 98 malibu 2.4l wont start, wont even try to start, i replaced starter to find that starter isnt getting power on ignition. I have also noticed gauges jump and clock resets everytime i try to start it. I have noticed that you have to jiggle key to get it to turn. Does this sound like an ignition switch issue?
could you send me a link for replacing with an impala i got an '02 that does not want to start anymore turning the key was an art to get it started and made a howling screech noise when engine first starts think it may be the tumbler to get the engine going but I need to replace the ignition
We currently do not have an auto repair video on how to remove an ignition switch in a 2004 Chevy Malibu. We'll keep this request in mind in the event that we need to make this repair in the future. Thanks for asking. 1aauto.com 866-403-3393
Do you have a video showing how to remove and replace the ignition park lock cable on a 2001 malibu? This seems to be my problem and it will not allow the key to fall in the locked position meaning the switch stays on.
Will this work on a 2004 chvy impala? Bought the car and sometimes it still crank right up but sometimes it won't,I have to wait 10 minutes for it to crank up
hey I got a 03 Malibu and the key gets locked on the ACC position, i'm able to take the key out but it will eventually kill the battery. is that what I need to replace? thanks in advance.
After Replacing everything and putting it all back on, then putting the battery cable back on my car will continue to try to start itself. Do you know what could cause this??
i have chevey malibu 1998 & my key will not turn the ignition at all. is this tumbler problem . can i change the ignition without turning key to on position >?
Usually if they start to get hard to turn like that, it's not to much longer before that start to fail. The switch is more than likely going bad. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
Chevy Malibu Classic 2004 Won't do anything when I turn the key not a single noise, Mechanic came out and said it couldn't have been the starter as I was thinking. Chevy put a recall out on this piece may this be the problem at hand???
Zach X I am having the same issue now. My key won't turn at all and I thought my steering wheel was locked but idk. Did you find your solution? I have to get those new key inserts for my 04 as well because of the recall.
Yes but Chevy doesn't fix it correctly. The dealer added a bigger cover over the key end and said it needed a counter weight to fix the problem but I think that's nonsense. The problem you are talking about as well as not being able to turn off the ignition completely and/or the key is stuck and won't come out are all problems related to recall issue. Basically, the ignition cylinder is not made or designed well but replacing it is the easiest thing to do. The dealer wants $500 to do it. Anybody can do it in less than hour. A1 Auto has the correct part at the cheapest price.
I was just charged 2 hours of labor at a locksmith to replace the ignition switch. Seems excessive since this video is less than 5 minutes long! Also -- the radio now gets no reception. They could not explain why. It seems apparent from this video that they didn't re-attach the antenna properly. Would you agree? And is 2 hours an excessive labor charge?
+javi mendoza This repair should not effect the alarm. We carry the repair part shown in this video on our website. Here's a link to them www.1aauto.com/ignition-lock-cylinder-case-housing/i/1aimx00140#TH-cam&CTA%20Comments&
So my roommate lost my key and I'm trying to change the ignition switch. I can't seem to get the switch to turn to auxiliary to hit the small tab to get it out. What do I do?
I understand that but that is my problem. The key won't turn, the wheel is not locked and the shifter will not move. Can I just replace the entire ignition switch?
Try to do a total transmission fluid change along with a new filter on the car. There may be a piece of debris floating around in the transmission that's hanging up the valve body. Hope this helps you out. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
thanks. someone broke into my car and since i was about to sell it it was completely empty of anything to steal. i even took out the change. well since that asshole couldnt steal anything they decided to destroy the ignition
You have to make sure the end of the cylinder is lined up correctly with the back of the socket. If it is turned just a little, it won't go in all the way.
I need to know how you take the whole unit out that the electrical wires hook to that the ignition or the gear shift is hooked to how do you get that out please
"√ *Watch the Video*
√ *Buy The Part at 1A Auto* 1aau.to/m/Visit-1AAuto
√ *Do it Yourself*
√ *Save Money*"
IMPORTANT NOTE: If your "Theft System" light in the dash flashes with the key in the 'on' position but the vehicle does not start, leave the key 'on' for about 10 minutes until the light stops flashing then turn the key to off then start the vehicle.
Something like that can be pretty hard to track down sometimes but normally the issue has to do with the ignition switch acting up 9 times out of 10. Bringing it into a shop and having them diagnose the issue will be your best bet at this point.
great info definitely a lot better than taking it to a mechanic to rip you off nothing like being mechanically inclined with assistance from people like yourselves it's greatly appreciated keep up the great work.
Thanks for watching. We're glad you liked it. 1aauto.com 866-403-3393
This was a good video. Took me 20 minutes. Make sure the transmission selector is in "Park" to pull out the key. Its easier to put it into D1 in order to take out the radio, ect. but don't forget to put it back in Park to check everything out. This install is very easy. The dealer wanted $500 to do this!
+Jimmy Russell Thanks for checking us out. Shop here for high quality auto parts: 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c
We currently do not have a video that shows this particular repair.
Thank you for posting this!!! I was able to follow your steps and take care of it. I didn't have to replace it just clean and use some WD-40 to lube it, now it works smooth as butter. Thanks again! Btw, this also works on a 2004 model.
You’re welcome! Glad we could help. 1aauto.com 866-403-3393
thanks for the help I am a tech but never did a lock cyl in a malibu. Glad I watched this video. Identifix I use at work says to take out the instrument cluster. lol
@browniesareg You would need to find a way to turn the ignition so that you can change it. You could try wiggling the key up and down as you try to turn the ignition, to see if that works. Hope this helps you out.
Thanks. They somehow disconnected the antenna and say they didn't touch it, but I am taking it back for them to fix. Oh -- and changing the Ignition switch didn't solve my starting problem anyway. $337 later I'm no better off than when I started, plus I have to find the time to go back to get the radio fixed. Thank you for responding to my initial question.
Update on 02 chevy impala. we ended up replacing the starter the ring was jammed in the teeth and replaced ignition tumbler and was able to get security to go off it ran fine for a day and a half then wouldn't want to start. the fly wheel spins but the engine does not want to turn over. we think it might be a broken crankshaft. what do you guys think? you have helped us out so much and really appreciate the speedy replies you have given us.
when dealing with anything electrical, disconnecting the battery ensures you will not get shocked.
We currently do not have an auto repair video that shows you how to make this particular repair. We do carry the replacement ignition on our website Part Number: 1AZIS00026 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
We currently do not have an auto repair video for that particular vehicle. It could be a similar process.
We currently do not have an auto repair video that shows this particular repair. We'll keep this request in mind during any future repairs that we may make on this vehicle. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
It may have taken them that long if they weren't used to the removal process. You may want to check the antenna on the back to see if it has become loose.
The procedure shown in this video should be the same, or very similar to your application. If you click on the link in the video, you can purchase the ignition show in the video for your 2002 Chevy Impala. Hope this helps you out. Have a great day 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
RE: IMPORTANT NOTE. I have had the Theft System problem forever and it is really frustrating when I am running late, or even worse, when I am stuck sitting in my car in the dark. Think... time change + dedicated teacher + bad neighborhood. It used to happen at least once a week. I heard of some solutions by installing a switch or a remote start. What do you know about these options. Your videos are so easy to follow! Thank you for that!
Beginning at 1:56, you turned the key to the on position and then pressed a screwdriver into the small rectangular hole. What if I can't turn the key to the on position (because it won't turn)? It seems that without that step, there is nothing to push in the small rectangular hole?
Is there any alarm issues to be concerned about when taking the the stereo deck out?
Would this fix the key being stuck in ACC mode? It's draining my battery overnight. But the key comes out. Thanks!
I know this 9years ago but did this fix the issue?
The older malibu's do not require reprogramming where as the new ones do.
Thanks It saved me a lot of hassle.
Thank you for the video. If all you're doing is replacing the cylinder, is it necessary to have reprogramming performed? I am working on a 2003 Chevy Malibu LS.
@browniesareg I"m having the same problem, have to wiggle the steering wheel, and the transmission shift arm too. I know that someday it's not gonna turn. Takes a long time sometimes. This is my first video, trying to see if I can fix it myself. GOod luck!
The only trouble I had was I didn't know about the 10 min wait for the anti-thief light to turn off. Once the light turn off the car started up no problems. Thanks for the video.
You would more than likely need to get the ignition to turn forward so that you can remove the ignition cylinder.
A problem like this will most likely require the key tumbler to be drilled out so the cylinder can be spun. Without the cylinder moving, removal of the lock will be impossible.
You may want to check to see if there's a pinched wire somewhere or if you have a remote starter on the vehicle, is that acting up.
Thank you. I'm going to give this a try today!
You would need to get the key to turn in order to remove the ignition.
If the car ran fine when you turned it off last, you may want to see if it's getting spark and fuel to the motor. If the camshaft broke while you were driving it, the car would have just died and more than likely have been pretty loud.
Without being able to get the key to turn somehow, I'm not sure how you would be able to remove the ignition. You might need to have a locksmith take a look at it to see if they can get it to turn.
It shouldn't be. You may want to start with cleaning the battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush if you haven't already done this.
You may have to replace the key tumbler. What has probably happened is the teeth in the tumbler have either broken or are getting stuck.
Absolutely cannot turn tumbler to any position, any tips here?? Key has been a problem for a while, usually shaking up n down works, not anymore. Great video, thanks
When you buy the new ignition a key will come with it.
thank you so much for the link. I also have an 04 impala (never getting an impala again) that has difficulty shifting from first to second when pulling out of the drive but runs smoothly after. any ideas
You may need to be able to turn the key to remove it.
If the ignition cylinder is broke, than it should fix your issue.
I need to know how you take the whole unit out that the electrical wires hook to that the ignition or the gear shift is hooked to how do you get that out
i'm trying to replace the radio on my Malibu 2002. is it really that easy to take off the trim panel? or do i need a tool to do it?
When you try to pull it out, make sure that the screw driver used to push that button up on the side,isn't holding it in place preventing it from coming out. You may have to wiggle it a bit. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
I wish you had a video for installing an aftermarket stereo.
We are replacing the ignition switch on a 2002 impala, will we have to do the re learn procedure? And also are they pretty much the same ignition switch 02 Malibu and 02 impala.
Is old switch can makes cut the battery too?
You may want to make sure that the engine is getting spark and gas.
There shouldn't be. You may want to disconnect the battery before working on the radio.
Hello how do u change it. If ur ignition is locked? My key doesn't turn
Theresa my car is doing the same, but I’ve learned that if I move it up and down then it will work. Is there any lights or sounds that come on when you open the door? The shop that I picked it up from said they had to replace a fuse because it was draining the battery while it sat. Hope this might give a little more insight, but if not keep up the search. The answer is out there somewhere.
I was planning on buying this car will this car be a good choice or is there major issues with this car
hey my 98 malibu 2.4l wont start, wont even try to start, i replaced starter to find that starter isnt getting power on ignition. I have also noticed gauges jump and clock resets everytime i try to start it. I have noticed that you have to jiggle key to get it to turn. Does this sound like an ignition switch issue?
could you send me a link for replacing with an impala i got an '02 that does not want to start anymore turning the key was an art to get it started and made a howling screech noise when engine first starts think it may be the tumbler to get the engine going but I need to replace the ignition
How do you take the entire thing out with the wires are hooked to in the back that holds that piece in how do you take that whole thing out
Have 2004 chevy malibu classic and cant get cable out of the back of the ignition switch or the connecters off any tips?
We currently do not have an auto repair video on how to remove an ignition switch in a 2004 Chevy Malibu. We'll keep this request in mind in the event that we need to make this repair in the future. Thanks for asking. 1aauto.com 866-403-3393
Do you have a video showing how to remove and replace the ignition park lock cable on a 2001 malibu? This seems to be my problem and it will not allow the key to fall in the locked position meaning the switch stays on.
If the key will not turn it is a whole new ball game
Should I just change the entire switch and tumbler if the key is in the locked position and the shifter will not move??
Will this work on a 2004 chvy impala? Bought the car and sometimes it still crank right up but sometimes it won't,I have to wait 10 minutes for it to crank up
Thank you for watching. The process may be a little different. We will keep this vehicle in mind for future videos.
1aauto.com 888-844-3393
hey I got a 03 Malibu and the key gets locked on the ACC position, i'm able to take the key out but it will eventually kill the battery. is that what I need to replace?
thanks in advance.
thanks, this was a big help :)
After Replacing everything and putting it all back on, then putting the battery cable back on my car will continue to try to start itself. Do you know what could cause this??
Would this work on a 05 Classic?
Is it necessary to buy a new key when you do this?
You would need the key to remove it.
i have chevey malibu 1998 & my key will not turn the ignition at all.
is this tumbler problem . can i change the ignition without turning key to on position >?
Can u plz make a video to replace the ignition lock cylinder on a 2003 impala
Usually if they start to get hard to turn like that, it's not to much longer before that start to fail. The switch is more than likely going bad. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
Chevy Malibu Classic 2004 Won't do anything when I turn the key not a single noise, Mechanic came out and said it couldn't have been the starter as I was thinking. Chevy put a recall out on this piece may this be the problem at hand???
It could be. If there's a recall on the ignition, it should be replaced or fixed.
Zach X I am having the same issue now. My key won't turn at all and I thought my steering wheel was locked but idk. Did you find your solution? I have to get those new key inserts for my 04 as well because of the recall.
Zach X 2ⁿ0⁴çhe hi vyenvoie
1A Auto ²0ⁿ43nvoy
Yes but Chevy doesn't fix it correctly. The dealer added a bigger cover over the key end and said it needed a counter weight to fix the problem but I think that's nonsense. The problem you are talking about as well as not being able to turn off the ignition completely and/or the key is stuck and won't come out are all problems related to recall issue. Basically, the ignition cylinder is not made or designed well but replacing it is the easiest thing to do. The dealer wants $500 to do it. Anybody can do it in less than hour. A1 Auto has the correct part at the cheapest price.
Does it use the same key?
How do you keep the existing key?
can you remove the lock cylinder without the key because I lost mine
I was just charged 2 hours of labor at a locksmith to replace the ignition switch. Seems excessive since this video is less than 5 minutes long! Also -- the radio now gets no reception. They could not explain why. It seems apparent from this video that they didn't re-attach the antenna properly. Would you agree? And is 2 hours an excessive labor charge?
Thank you for the help.
Buz
I have a alarm on my 98 Malibu will it mess up my alarm? Theft system?
+javi mendoza This repair should not effect the alarm. We carry the repair part shown in this video on our website. Here's a link to them www.1aauto.com/ignition-lock-cylinder-case-housing/i/1aimx00140#TH-cam&CTA%20Comments&
This link is to the housing, which was not replaced in the video.
Key has to be in run then push in tab and comes right out
So my roommate lost my key and I'm trying to change the ignition switch. I can't seem to get the switch to turn to auxiliary to hit the small tab to get it out. What do I do?
Dying4pie2180 I'm in the same boat can't get it out
Did you ever find a way to get it out ? I’m dealing with the same lost keys
Put it in "Park".
Mine is stuck in the off position. it will not turn to the on position to perform thr
e procedure
same problem whatbcan I do to remove it
You may have to.
I understand that but that is my problem. The key won't turn, the wheel is not locked and the shifter will not move. Can I just replace the entire ignition switch?
The new ignition cylinder would come with a new key. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
Why do you disconnect the car battery??
Try to do a total transmission fluid change along with a new filter on the car. There may be a piece of debris floating around in the transmission that's hanging up the valve body. Hope this helps you out. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393
Why did you change the lock Cylinder out?
+Dan Myers The key was becoming difficult to stick in and turn. Hope this helps you out. 1aauto.com
thank you. I was not sure if it was a security issue or the key being stuck.
so i did this and now the car wont start. it just cranks. any idea what i did wrong?
After 13 years my a/c and power windows wont work.. all because of the ignition switch
I don't have my key how can I change it
i had to drill a hole to depress the tab to remove it
What if the key won't turn??
thanks. someone broke into my car and since i was about to sell it it was completely empty of anything to steal. i even took out the change. well since that asshole couldnt steal anything they decided to destroy the ignition
What if the new replacement cylinder won't go in all the way
You have to make sure the end of the cylinder is lined up correctly with the back of the socket. If it is turned just a little, it won't go in all the way.
Replace switch and it doesn’t do anything. Put old one back on and nothing.blown fuse?
Make sure it is in "Park" when you install the cylinder.
my key dnt turn so I can push clyder lock with screw driver
speaking for my husband!!!
What If The Key Don’t Turn
cool
Great!!!!
Do ya'll got any videos to show this for a 2004 Chevy Malibu Classic?
What if I can't even turn my key in the ignition?
I need to know how you take the whole unit out that the electrical wires hook to that the ignition or the gear shift is hooked to how do you get that out please
What if your key won't turn?