Ignition repair in Seattle

On a car with an automatic transmission, the key only comes out in Park: check the shifter first. If the steering wheel is locked, turn it gently left and right while you turn the key back. On some cars a flat battery also keeps the key in, because the release needs power.

If none of that works, stop. Pulling hard or using pliers can snap the key inside the lock, and then there are two problems instead of one. Call us: we free the key and repair or replace the ignition lock cylinder if it is worn.

• The steering wheel is locked. The most common cause: turn the wheel while you turn the key.
• The key is worn. Years of use round off the cuts. If a second key turns easily, the first one is the problem, and a new key solves it.
• The ignition lock is worn. When every key sticks, or only works after jiggling, the parts inside the cylinder are worn and it needs repair or replacement.

Don’t spray household oil into the ignition: it collects dirt and makes sticking worse.

We repair or replace the ignition lock cylinder at the car, and can make a new key to go with it. When you call, tell us the make, model and year.

If the key snaps, leave the piece in the lock and don’t try to start the car with what is left. We extract the broken part and can cut and program a new key where the vehicle supports it. Broken keys in door and trunk locks are part of our car locksmith work.

If someone forced the ignition, don’t keep trying to start the car. We check the ignition lock and replace the cylinder if it was damaged.

• The key turns but the engine doesn’t crank: usually the battery or the starter. That is a job for a mechanic or roadside assistance.
• The engine cranks but won’t start, and a security light flashes: the car may not be recognizing the key’s chip. A key that is programmed again, or a new one, fixes it. See car key replacement.