Ignition Cylinder has me scared for my life.

[Witness]

So i noticed about two weeks ago that my key was loose from my ignition cylinder. Sure enough it lead to me being able to turn on the car and be able to take the key out while its still on. I can also use a screw driver to turn it on :(.

I was wondering if that happens over gradual wear and tear, can someone just as easy bust a new one with a thin flat head screwdriver and take off with my car?

What would be a better idea
1.Go to Nissan ask for the new cylinder (preferred)

2.order through general auto stores like, autozone, pepboys etc.
(I know they carry shit since i work in one of them lol)

Or are they the same thing? (which i doubt?)

BTW i own a 97 240sx se

[CrimsonRockett]

From first hand experience, I would recommend replacing the entire unit with an OEM replacement.

I wouldn't rely on something as important as the ignition of the car to an Autozone replacement.

But, that's just me.

[Rapier46]

they're not that hard. It is normal wear. My silvia does it after only 62000 k. To be honest i think the shape of the key makes a big difference. My key is shaped so theres nothing holding it in really, theres to big edges to grab on so it doesn't stay in. It still should stay, but i think that was part of it on my vehicle. But it's kinda nice to be able to start it, take the key out lock the doors and go inside while it warms up in the morning or whenever.

[Matej]

My ignition is the same way. Never had a problem with it, under normal driving the key stays in. True it has fallen out once when drifting, which is actually how I found out about it. Now when I go drifting I just put the key in my pocket.

You can start up pretty much any 240 with a screwdriver, even if it has a brand new ignition cylinder.