Ignition barrel problems
Key stiff, stuck in the ignition or will not turn at all? We sort it at the car.
How we can help
The ignition barrel is the lock the key turns in. Over years of use the barrel and the key both wear, and you start to notice: the key needs jiggling, it sticks, or one day it will not turn at all.
Sometimes the fault is the key rather than the barrel, and a freshly cut key fixes it. If the barrel itself is worn or damaged, it can be repaired or replaced.
If the key turns but the car will not start, that is usually a different fault, such as the key's chip. Call and describe it, and we will tell you whether it is something we can sort.
Questions
All questionsMy key is stuck in the ignition and will not come out.
Check the car is in park (or neutral on a manual) and wiggle the steering wheel gently. If it still will not release, leave it rather than pulling hard, and call us.
Do I need a whole new ignition?
Not always. A worn key is sometimes the real problem, and a new one fixes it. If the barrel does need work, we tell you what before we start.
What do you need from me?
The registration, where the car is and what has happened. Before we open or make a key for any car, we ask to see ID that shows you are the registered keeper.
Where we cover
We come to the car anywhere within 40 miles of Chelmsford, including:
Other car key services
No dealer, no recovery truck, and emergency call-outs 24/7.
24/7 emergency call-outs
Locked out late at night or stuck at the roadside? Call any time, day or night.
Keys locked in the car
Keys on the seat, in the boot or still in the ignition? We come out and get you back in.
Spare car keys
A second key made while you still have one, so losing a key never strands you.
Lost car keys
No key at all? A new one cut and coded at the car, without a trip to the dealer.
Car key programming
Transponder keys, remote fobs and keyless keys coded to your car on site.
Stolen car keys
Keys taken? We make new ones and, where the car allows, stop the stolen key starting it.
Broken car keys
Snapped blade, key broken off in the lock or a fob falling apart? We fix it at the car.
Car key advice
Not sure what you need, or whether it is a dealer job? Ring and we will talk it through.
Locked out right now?
Emergency call-outs run 24/7. Send the registration and where the car is, and we come to you.