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Originally Posted by vandamja
Thanks for the help.
What is the procedure for checking the solenoid? Once the covering is off the steering column do I just use a voltage meter to check for a signal? Is the key release solenoid pretty obvious once the coverings are off?
I also wonder about the removal of the Key Cylinder. I know that on many cars there is a button that can be depressed which will allow you to simply slide the cylinder out. Is this the case with my 99 Regal?
One again, thanks a ton for the help.
Jim
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Here is an extract from replacement of an ignition switch. It covers how to remove the key cylinder. From the ignition switch is a small electrical connector with two wires. That plugs into the key release device so voltage can be checked there. Also, it may not hurt to lube the cylinder with graphite used for lock cylinders while all of it is apart. Good luck!
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BEFORE BEGINING THIS REPAIR REMOVE THE NEGATIVE TERMINAL FROM THE BATTERY. IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO DO THE REPAIR WITHOUT DOING THIS.
Look inside the slot where the tilt steering knob is located. There is a black metal piece where the knob inserts into the tilt mechanism. Pry it back slightly with a small screwdriver. One from an electronics tool set will work. While you have it pried, pull the knob out and it should release.
Remove the two screws from the bottom of the steering column cover and remove the cover.
Remove the two screws that hold the top steering column cover in place.
Insert the ignition key into the key cylinder and turn the key clockwise to the start position. Nothing will happen because you have disconnected the battery prior to starting this project. Lift the top steering column cover being careful not to break it because it is still held in place by the ignition key cylinder. You will see with your mirror near the back end of the cylinder housing a small hole. Stick a small allen wrench in the hole, this will release the key cylinder so that it can be pulled out. Once the key cylinder is removed the column top cover is free to be removed.
The black box below the key cylinder with all of the wires coming out of it is the ignition switch that you are changing. Look at the switch you have purchased for this repair. Notice that the small white plug with two wires attached has a tab on the side that can be pushed down, this is the release for the plug-in. Using your mirror you will see that plug-in against the ignition switch housing where it plugs in. Using a small screw driver press the release tab in against the plug and rotate the plug 90 degrees to the right to remove it. To do otherwise may break the plug.
Remove the plug from the white key release device by inserting a small screw driver and pressing the release tab on it.