Steering
Ignition Lock Housing
An ignition lock housing holds the lock cylinder in the steering column and links it to the ignition switch. We carry 33 ignition lock housings from $37 to $362 for vehicles from 1984-2014, from AC Delco, DIY Solutions and Dorman, with fits for the Chevrolet S10, Tahoe and Silverado 1500 and the Volkswagen Jetta.
Shop ignition lock housing by vehicle
AC Delco Ignition Lock Housing 26056263 for Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Fits 1999 models
DIY Solutions Ignition Lock Housing BSS00277 for Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Fits 2000–2003 models
What the housing does
The housing is the casting at the top of the steering column that the lock cylinder sits in. It guides the parts that connect the key to the ignition switch and the steering wheel lock. On many trucks and SUVs the housing also carries the turn signal and tilt parts.
When the housing wears or cracks, the key may turn but fail to move the switch, or the cylinder may stick.
Signs of a worn housing
Common signs include a key that turns too far or feels loose, a vehicle that will not crank even though the key turns, a key that will not return from start, or a cylinder that wobbles. Some owners also notice the key stuck in the column.
Before you buy, check whether the fault lies with the lock cylinder or ignition switch, since they can cause similar symptoms.
Choosing and fitting
Housings vary by column type, such as tilt or fixed, and by shift location. Some kits include an instruction sheet, a screw, detent springs and detent pins, while others are the housing alone. Read the contents so you know what to transfer.
Disconnect the battery and follow the airbag disable steps before working on the column. Steering column work needs care and the right tools, such as a lock plate compressor and a wheel puller.
Ignition Lock Housing questions
What are the signs of a bad ignition lock housing?
A loose or wobbly key, a key that turns without cranking the engine, or a key that sticks in the start position can all point to a worn housing.
Do I need special tools to replace a lock housing?
Usually yes. Many columns need a steering wheel puller and a lock plate compressor to reach the housing. A service guide lists the tools for your vehicle.
Does the lock housing include the lock cylinder?
Usually not. Most housings are sold without the cylinder or keys. Check the package contents on each listing. You will usually transfer your existing lock cylinder and keys into the new housing.