Replaced ignition cylinder and housing (lost keys)?

2002 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER
212,000 MILES • 4.2L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
SAINTT
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I damaged and mostly removed the metal backed plastic plate behind the wheel clock just in front of the ignition housing to get to the ignition housing bolts. I put in the new ignition , but when I turn the key I only get the battery light coming on for the dashboard , I'm not able to do the ignition re-learn procedure .also , (not sure if this matters) I have power when I turn the key for everything but the dash lights , dash backlight , and the heat/AC unit.
Does this plate need to be in place for the ignition to function or is it possibly something else? I did notice that there is a spring-loaded button that was pressed up to the metal plate that I damaged and removed so I'm assuming it's a part of the wheel clock? (Idk) I marked it with an arrow in the pic I'm sending. The plastic plate the (brass? /copper?) button is up against is where the metal plate was attached. I tried sending a pic but I'm having problems uploading.
Mar 29, 2023 at 2:03 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,256 POSTS
I don't see the images; can you please try again? In the meantime, here are the instructions on how to do the job so you can recheck your work. Also did you have the key coded to the car before you installed it?

Here is an important note when doing the job.

Important: The gears between the ignition switch and the lock cylinder housing must be in the correct position. Failure to do so will cause a misalignment of the gears in the ignition switch and the lock cylinder housing, which may result in a No Start or Battery Drain.

Check out the images (below). Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem so we can see what's going on.
Mar 30, 2023 at 4:36 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.