How can I remove the ignition lock from a 1990 Toyota Corolla?

Answer 1

Wise guy answer-with a screw and a slide hammer.
Smart guy answer- remove the covers from the steering column, remove the electrical part of the switch that sits behind the key mechanism. drill out the two shear bolts holding the lock portion in. Replace with new lock and shear bolts and reassemble.

Answer 2

This is tricky, if it's anything like the 90 Camry...there is a trick
to it.
I would suggest that you buy a Haynes manual for the car, the
procedure is shown in the book. (Or go to the library, they
may have the book there)

Basically, the lock tumbler is seperate from the ignition switch
each one can be replaced independantly (they are on opposite
sides of the column with a shaft between them.

Remove the covers as suggested before. (make sure to
disconnect the battery first).

The tricky part is that the key needs to be turned part way
(ACC position, I think) then you need to insert a pin towards
the rear of the tumbler. The pin (I used a bent paperclip)
pushes the locking pin OUT and allows you to pull the
cylinder out. Once you do it once, it's a piece of cake...but
finding the right hole to insert the pin in is the tricky part.
Plan to be on you back under the steering column when you
do it.

Have fun!

Answer 3

Have it towed to the bad side of town and leave it overnight. When you find the care a few weeks later, the ignition lock will be removed for you and a screw driver will be installed in the hole where the lock used to be.

Answer 4

Are you replacing it? There should be a pin holding the ignition in place. You need to take the panels off around the steering wheel to get in there if you haven't done so already