A stuck or unresponsive key is often a sign of an ignition cylinder problem. Over time, dirt buildup, worn-out components, or a misaligned switch can make it difficult to turn or remove the key. If your key doesn’t turn at all, the issue could be:
Forcing the key can cause further damage, so it’s best to seek professional help. Our locksmiths extract stuck keys, repair ignition cylinders, and rekey ignitions if needed—allowing you to keep your existing key instead of replacing it.
A failing ignition switch can prevent your car from starting or even cause it to stall right after turning on. Some common warning signs include:
If your car starts and immediately stalls, the issue may be an electrical failure in the ignition switch or wiring. Our team inspects the entire system, replaces faulty components, and ensures everything functions properly—so your car starts and stays running.
When an ignition switch begins to fail, it can cause problems such as flickering dashboard lights, an unresponsive starter, or intermittent power loss. If the key turns without engaging the engine, the switch may need repair or replacement. Our team carefully assesses the ignition system, repairs minor issues when possible, and replaces the switch if necessary to restore functionality.
The ignition lock cylinder, where the key is inserted, can also wear out over time. A damaged cylinder may prevent the key from turning, get stuck, or fail to release the key. If the lock cylinder is malfunctioning, we remove and replace it, ensuring that your ignition works smoothly. To maintain convenience, we can rekey the new cylinder to match your existing key, so there’s no need for a full lock replacement. If the cylinder components are misaligned, we make adjustments to fix the issue without replacing the entire system.
For security reasons, some drivers prefer to have their ignition rekeyed rather than replaced. If you’ve lost your keys, had them stolen, or want one key to operate both the door locks and ignition, rekeying is an affordable and effective option. This process changes the internal components of the ignition so that a new key is required while keeping the existing lock in place.
Sometimes, a damaged or misaligned steering column cover can also affect ignition performance. If the cover is loose or cracked, it can interfere with turning the key or engaging the ignition system. Our locksmiths inspect the steering column, repair or replace the cover if needed, and ensure all internal components are properly aligned.
Every repair starts with a detailed inspection of your ignition system, key, and electrical components to determine the exact cause of the issue. Depending on our findings, we either repair or replace the faulty ignition switch or cylinder to restore proper function. Once the repair is complete, we thoroughly test the ignition system to ensure the key turns smoothly and the engine starts without resistance. As a final step, we verify that all components, including the steering column cover and wiring, are secure and functioning correctly.