Ignition Repair in Kennett Square, PA

A worn key can wear the ignition lock cylinder too, leaving you with a key that sticks, turns only at an angle, or will not turn at all.

In Kennett Square, we repair ignition locks and check whether the key, the cylinder, or both are causing the trouble. A key that has lost its original shape may no longer move the parts inside as it should. Cutting another key from the worn one may copy the same problem, so both need a closer look.

If your steering wheel locks while you are in Kennett Square, its position may also keep the ignition from turning. Avoid twisting the key hard or pulling on the wheel. A bent or broken key adds another problem. We check the steering lock as well as the key and ignition before recommending a repair or replacement. A repair may address worn parts while keeping the existing cylinder. If it is too worn to work reliably, replacement may be the better choice, though that could mean using a different key for the ignition than for the doors.

When we come to look at an ignition that will not turn, we first check the key and the way the steering wheel is behaving.

A locked wheel can put pressure on the lock cylinder, but wear inside the mechanism can also keep it from turning. We look for signs of wear and check whether the trouble points to the lock or another part of the vehicle. Forcing anything that will not move can make the problem worse, so avoid trying to muscle it into position.

Before work starts, we explain what we found and whether repair or replacement makes sense. Repair may address sticking or worn parts if they are still fit to use. If the cylinder is too worn, replacement may be the better choice, and we will explain what that means for your existing key. A worn one may also need replacement, since continued use can wear out new parts. Afterward, we check its movement and the steering release with you, along with whether the vehicle starts. If the problem points to another vehicle system, we explain what we found so you can decide on the next step.

A key that has been stuck may have worn edges or bends that make it harder to use.

Keep a spare made for your vehicle in a safe place, and compare it with the one you normally use. If the everyday key looks damaged, ask us about replacing it rather than continuing to force it. A lighter key ring also puts less weight on the ignition. Avoid household oils or sprays unless your vehicle's manual recommends them.

Watch for a key that sticks again, turns only at an angle, or needs extra pressure. If it will not come out, make sure the vehicle is fully in park and follow the instructions in your owner's manual. Do not yank or twist the key. It is worth calling us again if the sticking returns or the steering wheel stays locked, so we can check what is causing the trouble.