Lost keys... Ignition lock cylinder: replace? Recode? Something else? (Page 1/1)
Cliff Pennock SEP 07, 11:40 AM
A first for everything, I lost the keys to my Fiero for the first time in 36 years... Actually, that's not true because I lost the spare ignition key during moving about 25 years ago. Anyways, needless to say I was "almost getting around to" making spare keys - but I never did. I do have a spare key for the door, just not for the ignition. So what are my options? Can I "read" from the existing cylinder what key I need? Or do I need to buy a new cylinder?
katie80 SEP 07, 12:04 PM

quote
Originally posted by Cliff Pennock:

A first for everything, I lost the keys to my Fiero for the first time in 36 years... Actually, that's not true because I lost the spare ignition key during moving about 25 years ago. Anyways, needless to say I was "almost getting around to" making spare keys - but I never did. I do have a spare key for the door, just not for the ignition. So what are my options? Can I "read" from the existing cylinder what key I need? Or do I need to buy a new cylinder?



when my ignition cylinder got too worn out to work right I just replaced it. it's really easy. there's a good set of 5 or 6 videos walking you through it. I bought a replacement with an unbranded key and then took that key to my Cadillac dealership and had a gm branded key cut. not sure about reading it. I personally wouldn't bother, since the ignition key is ONLY for the ignition.
theogre SEP 07, 01:21 PM
Replacing may cost less then recode plus have a new lock.

Replace it needs tools to do that.... Steering wheel puller and lock plate tool.
people in US often get those thru "Free" loaner tools programs at many auto part stores. But you may have to buy them thru amazon etc.
Note: Some parts in/on the column are NOT Metric like OE S-wheels puller holes need SAE bolts w/ puller tool. Think S-wheel nut is SAE too but Metric wrench can work if not too tight.

"Recode" needs Real Locksmith to visit the car w/ tools to read the lock and have key blanks for Old GM cars.
Can cost in US but in NL can be hard to find someone to do that making cost more.

------------------
Dr. Ian Malcolm: Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.
(Jurassic Park)

The Ogre's Fiero Cave

Saggy SEP 07, 01:39 PM
When I got my Fiero the ignition lock cylinder was stuck in the on position, so I couldn't properly shut it off. I got a new one for $20 from napa, found a video and got it done in less than an hour. I had no experience at the time, I wouldn't worry about any struggles. Just make sure you really torque down the bolt that hold the steering wheel on, or else the wheel will slip dome during heavy turning.
fierofool SEP 07, 02:10 PM
The Fiero Store also sells the ignition switch. The cylinders are different internally in the later years. I think the 87 and 88 use a different key blank than earlier years.

Cliff, sending you a PM about how to address lost keys.
RWDPLZ SEP 07, 02:26 PM
We JUST had a thread on this topic.

Cliff Pennock SEP 07, 02:37 PM
I seriously have been looking for my keys for about 5 hours at end. When I gave up and wanted a cookie, I found the keys under the pack of cookies. I kid you not.

Not only that, I have a bowl with a bunch of keys that I either found on the street, or in my house, or wherever. I have never thrown them away just in case. One of the keys looked like it could be an ignition key (although it looked quite a bit different than the spare key I lost). I take it to my car, insert in the ignition, turn it, and the car starts right up.

So... yeah...
RWDPLZ SEP 07, 02:42 PM
Go buy a lottery ticket.
Jake_Dragon SEP 07, 04:29 PM
As a web developer you should know nothing works without a cookie
buddycraigg SEP 26, 04:04 PM
glad you found your keys.
With the right tools, you can change the lock cylinder in about 20 minutes.
I have a video of it that I made about 13 years ago.