Someone tried to steal my 99 SL1 a few weeks ago, and trashed the entire cylinder area. The damage goes beyond just the key cylinder. I''m considering locating a replacement from a towing company''s assortment of vehicles, but am not sure how easy it will be to replace that part(s). I currently have to hot wire my car to start it! Any assistance would be greatly appreciated, especially as related to removal and replacement of the part.

I would look through the various u-pull-it yards near to your home, and get an entire ignition lock cylinder to replace the one that buggered up.

I just replaced my cylinder and ignition switch on my 97 SL1 and noticed the bracket/housing assy that holds the cylinder is hard riveted onto the column. Certainly could be removed but not a simple task. Means drilling out the two rivets and finding a suitable alternative to reinstall new assy if you dont have a rivet squeezer.

doesn't your auto insurance cover the repairs for such a dastardly deed?