Ignition switch- possible to re-key?

[Neilk]

Hi,

I had to replace the ignition switch in my car several years ago. I've been in the project mood for the past couple of weeks and I now want to rekey the ignition switch to match the rest of the locks. Is it possible?

It would be nice to only have one key for everything. I realise that it may be easier to rekey the 4 other locks, but I'd like to stay with the original key set.

Thanks

[Ted Stringer]

Nope.

The ignition is a sealed system. You will have to get a new one. The good news is that the lock assembly should be around $300 - 400. Just beware as it takes about 2 months to get the part because it has to be custom made in Germany. They will need the vin number of the car to make it to match.

I had to replace the one in my car when the linkageg that dosn't allow you to hit the starter twice screwed up and wouldn't let me hit the starter at all.

[Tim Polzin]

As Ted said, I don't think the factory intended to field replace the tumbler, but it can be done.

I took one from an old 70T to a locksmith who rekeyed it. If you look carefully around the barrel, you will see a small pin. If you remove the pin, the tumbler will come out. I think it cost me about 1 hour labor.

Tim

[john walker's workshop]

the pin is flush, so a tiny hole needs to be drilled right next to it, about 1 to 2mm deep, so you can get the sharp point of an awl up against the side of the pin, and kind of lever it out enough to grab it. personally, for all the hassle, i would just rekey the doors to match the ignition.