Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement 2008 Chevy HHR

Broke only key in ignition. Drilled out but damaged ignition immobilizer. I have key transponder end.

Need advice on cheaper option. I know I will have to spend money.

1. Buy only ignition immobilizer but it prob won’t communicate with engine (IDK if it needs too). I have key transponder end that should still match engine. OR

2. Buy ignition immobilizer and key combo, which should match with each other, but prob will not communicate with engine.

3. Which is best: Key transponder and engine match, or ignition immobilizer and key match?

Thank you for any advice.

If you damaged the immobilizer, you  are going to need to replace it. If it is still functional, buy a new key and lock cylinder from the dealer and all should be well. The dealer can provide you with an ignition key with transponder that matches as long as you can prove you own the vehicle. Show them a copy of the title, etc.

Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement

Removal Procedure

CAUTION

If replacing both the ignition lock cylinder and the ignition and start switch, always replace the ignition and start switch first before removing the ignition lock cylinder, as misalignment between the ignition and start switch housing and the ignition and start switch will occur resulting in permanent damage to the ignition and start switch.

1.Disconnect the battery negative cable.

2.Disable the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system.

3.Remove the steering column trim covers.

4.

Turn the ignition lock cylinder to the RUN position.

5.

Note

There are two retainers on the ignition lock cylinder. Depress both retainers to remove the lock cylinder from the ignition and start switch housing.

Depress the first retainer through the ignition and start switch housing access hole (2) with a small allen wrench or similar pick-type tool. The lock cylinder will back out slightly.

6.Depress the second retainer through the ignition and start switch housing access hole (1). The lock cylinder will back out slightly again.

7.Pull the ignition lock cylinder out enough to locate the second retainer in the ignition and start switch housing (2).

8.Depress the second retainer though the ignition and start switch housing access hole (2) a second time. The lock cylinder should release from the housing. If not, the lock cylinder may need to be moved in and out several times to align the retainer correctly in the hole.

9.Remove the ignition lock cylinder from the ignition and start switch housing.

1.

Note

If installing a NEW ignition lock cylinder, refer to Key and Lock Cylinder Coding (1st Design) | Key and Lock Cylinder Coding (2nd Design).

Position the ignition lock cylinder in the RUN position and insert the lock cylinder into the ignition and start switch housing.

2.Rotate the ignition lock cylinder in the ignition and start switch housing to verify proper rotation.

3.Install the steering column trim covers.

4.Enable the supplemental inflatable restraint system (SIR) system.

5.Connect the battery negative cable.

6.Complete a final function check. With the ignition key in the OFF position, verify that the key can be inserted and removed with normal operating effort. Rotate the key through all operating positions and verify that the key rotates with normal operating effort. With the key in the RUN position, firmly pull the key to verify it cannot be pulled out of the ignition lock cylinder. Return the key to OFF position and remove the key. The final function check is complete. If any of the prior checks are not completed successfully, then verify the correct assembly, coding and installation of the lock cylinder and repeat the final function check. If the symptoms repeat, call TAC for assistance.

Key Stuck In Ignition

Ignition Lock, Replace

1. Remove steering wheel.

2. Remove steering column trim covers.

3. Remove theft deterrent control module.

4. Remove inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil.

5. Disconnect ignition lock cylinder solenoid harness connector.

6. Disconnect ignition switch harness connector.

7. Bite into shear bolt at a position offset from center using a suitable hammer and chisel.

8. Tap chisel to rotate and loosen bolt.

9. Ensure lock cylinder is in RUN position. If steering wheel lock bolt is engaged, it may prevent removal of lock cylinder case. If lock bolt is engaged, cut lock cylinder case housing collar at locations outlined (1).

10. Remove ignition lock cylinder case housing from steering column.

11. Reverse procedure to install. Perform theft deterrent system reprogramming as follows:

a. Connect a scan tool to vehicle.

b. Turn ON ignition, with engine OFF.

c. Follow scan tool instructions.