Where to get service

I need to change out the ignition lock cylinder in my '88 Aries, and I
don't have the time or tools to yank the steering column like my FSM
says I have to do. Is there any national-type of chain that can do
this service? Would it be better to go to a Dodge dealer?

Thanks for any ideas.

Joe

 

If it is just the lock cylinder that needs replacement, any qualified
locksmith should be able to do that for you.

-KM

 

I don't know of any "specialty" chain, if that is what you are asking.
Most any competent independent shop would be able to change the
cylinder out for you, likely at a better price than a dealer.

 

Go for a locksmith.

If you can drive the car to them, then you save a service call. But
even with a service call, this should be a quick and realtively
inexpensive thing to get done.

I had to have it done years ago. 1979 Malibu Classic. The key stuck in
the lock as I was turning the car off. Thankfully, the engine had shut
down. And, of course, this had to happen on LABOUR DAY! &^%&^%

Be that as it may, a mobile locksmith came right to my house within an
hour. He had the steering wheel off in what looked like SECONDS.
Ignition Lock Cylendar replaced in less than 5 minutes. Complete job -
front to back - 15 minutes. Price was about $65 $CDN including the
parts, and the tax and the weedend holiday service call! C-H-E-A-P!

Cost me an additional $5 to have a couple of spare keys cut.

The Yellow Pages are your friend!

hth

 

The only locksmith I called that can do the job is wanting to charge
$189 to do the job. I'm thinking the local dodge dealer would be just
as bad....I may just have to keep the old one.

 

$189!!! You must have some really funky stuff going on in that
steering wheel! What crap.

Call around, there has GOT to be someone cheaper than that.

 

It's a standard steering column, but unfortunately, EVERYTHING has to
be removed in an Aries to access the lock cylinder. The labor alone is
what is killing me in terms of the price.