1991 Honda Civic Ignition Switch Tumbler Removal

The 1991 Honda Civic base model came with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a four-speed manual transmission. The ignition switch tumbler is designed to prevent the vehicle from being turned on or the steering wheel from being unlocked without the proper cut key. Over time the pins inside the tumbler can become worn and will allow the key to be removed without out being turned off, or will make it difficult to turn the key from the off position, if at all. The entire keyed switch is replaced as an assembly, but will require removing the steering column cover and disabling the air bag.

Instructions

1

Open the hood and support it with the prop rood. Disconnect the positive battery cable first, followed by the negative battery cable with a battery wrench. Allow the vehicle to sit without the battery connected for at least five minutes to allow the airbag system to disarm.

2

Remove the lower driver side kick panel by turning the two locking tabs and pulling downward on the panel. Examine the lower steering column cover to find the cover securing bolts. Remove the bolts and remove lower steering column cover.

3

Look at the end of the ignition switch tumbler and disconnect the electrical wiring harness. Make sure the ignition switch is in the Off or locked position with the key in the switch. Remove the two mounting screws with a socket and ratchet and lower the switch from the steering column.

4

Place the new key into the new ignition switch and make sure it is in the Off position. Guide the ignition switch into place. Install the ignition switch screws and tighten then snug with a socket and ratchet. Do not over tighten these screws or they will break.

5

Place a small amount of dielectric grease into the ignition switch wiring harness and plug the connector into the switch. Position the lower column cover into place and install the retaining bolts. Tighten the bolts snug with a socket and ratchet.

6

Lift the lower dash kick panel into place and turn the locking tabs to secure it to the bottom of the dash. Connect the negative battery cable, followed by the positive. Tighten the battery terminals with a battery wrench. Shut the vehicle hood.

7

Turn the key to the on position and monitor the SRS or airbag light. It should come on and/or blink for about six seconds and go off. Start the vehicle to ensure proper operation of the new switch. Keep in my you will likely need to keep the original ignition key as your year Civic shared the same cut key for the door locks, trunk lock, fuel door and trunk pop lock and the back seat latch.