How to Remove the Ignition Switch in a 2016–2021 Hyundai Tucson

The ignition switch on a 2016–2021 Hyundai Tucson is part of the lock cylinder assembly on the steering column, and it's held on with anti-theft security bolts — bolts with no heads to grab. In this video we pull the ignition switch out of a 2018 Tucson, and the trick is all about getting those security bolts started. Here's exactly how we do it when we're pulling ignition switches for the store.

What you'll need

  • A chisel or punch
  • A dead-blow hammer
  • A 10mm socket
  • Work gloves

Step 1: Expose the ignition lock housing

The ignition lock cylinder sits on the steering column behind the dash trim. With the trim and column covers out of the way (already stripped in the video), the lock housing and its security bolts are right in front of you.

Stripped Hyundai Tucson dash with the ignition lock housing exposed on the steering column

Step 2: Break the security bolts loose with a chisel and hammer

"We got a chisel punch here and our hammer to get these security bolts started." Hit straight down on top of the security bolt so the chisel bites into the edge of it, then come in on an angle from the side and tap it sideways. Do the same on the bolt on the other side — keep tapping until those security bolts spin right around.

GIF: driving the security bolts loose with a chisel and dead-blow hammer

Chisel and dead-blow hammer set on the ignition lock security bolt

Step 3: Spin the bolts out with a 10mm

"Once you have them loose you can just take a 10 millimeter and put it on them and spin them out nice and easy." The bolts have no heads, but once they're broken loose the 10mm socket grabs them fine and they come right out.

Spinning the loosened security bolts out with a 10mm socket

Step 4: Unplug the ignition switch wiring

"We got a couple plugs here — push these tabs, get that unplugged." Press each connector's tab and pull the plugs off the back of the assembly.

Unplugging the ignition switch wiring connectors

Step 5: The ignition switch is out

That's the whole job — the ignition switch and lock cylinder come out as one assembly, leaving the bare steering column behind. Installation is these steps in reverse.

Bare Tucson steering column with the ignition switch assembly removed

What to check on the replacement

  • Key situation: a used ignition cylinder comes with its own key — confirm the seller includes it, and know that the immobilizer chip in the key must be programmed to your Tucson for it to start.
  • Cylinder smoothness: turn the replacement with its key before you buy — it should turn smoothly through all positions without sticking.
  • Switch and connectors: check the electrical switch at the back of the assembly and its connectors for cracked housings or corroded pins.
  • Housing undamaged: make sure the mounting housing wasn't cracked or deformed when it was removed.

We pull and test Tucson ignition switches regularly — browse our used OEM ignition switches here. Every one is photographed as-is so you can see the exact condition before you buy.

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