Question 1

Why won't my key turn in the ignition?

Accepted Answer

The most common causes are a worn ignition barrel, a seized steering lock, a faulty transponder signal, or debris inside the lock wafers. We diagnose the exact cause on-site before deciding whether to repair or replace.

Question 2

Can the ignition be repaired rather than replaced?

Accepted Answer

Many faults can be repaired by rebuilding worn wafers, freeing seized components, or replacing the lock cylinder while keeping your existing key. We only recommend a full replacement when repair isn't viable.

Question 3

Will I need a new car key after an ignition replacement?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Where possible we re-pin the new barrel to match your existing key. If your locks and ignition are already mismatched, we can re-key the whole car to a single new key in the same visit.

Question 4

Can you repair the ignition at the roadside?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In some cases we already carry replacement ignition assemblies, pin and wafer kits, programming tools and diagnostic equipment. Otherwise we can order in the correct ignition assembly and book your job in at the earliest convenience. Most ignition repairs are completed at the roadside or driveway in under two hours.

Question 5

Why won't my key turn in the ignition?

Accepted Answer

The most common cause — and the easiest to fix yourself — is a locked steering wheel. When the wheel is turned after the key is removed, a security lock engages. Release it by holding the wheel firmly and applying light turning pressure to the key while gently rocking the wheel side to side. You should feel a small click and the key will turn freely. If that doesn't resolve it, the key or ignition barrel may be worn. This is common on higher-mileage vehicles and worsens gradually until one day the key simply won't turn at all. Stop applying force — a worn key can snap inside the barrel, turning a minor problem into a significantly bigger repair. Call an auto locksmith; a worn barrel can be repaired or replaced at the roadside across Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire without removing the dashboard.

Question 6

I can't get my key out of the ignition — what do I do?

Accepted Answer

Before calling anyone, work through these checks: make sure the gear selector is fully in Park (automatic gearboxes won't release the key unless it's in Park), confirm the engine is fully off rather than left in accessory mode, and try gently rocking the steering wheel while pulling the key. On some modern vehicles a flat 12V battery can also cause the release mechanism to stick — a jump start may help. If none of those work, leave it as it is. A stuck ignition barrel is a straightforward repair for a mobile auto locksmith and we can attend anywhere in Dorset, Hampshire, or around Salisbury without you needing to arrange a recovery.

Question 7

My steering wheel is locked and the key won't turn — is this serious?

Accepted Answer

Usually not. Steering lock is a normal factory security feature. To release it, apply gentle turning pressure on the key while rocking the steering wheel left and right — it releases with a click. Make sure you're not fighting the wheel; the movement should feel light, not forced. If several gentle attempts don't work, or you can feel resistance or grinding, stop and call us. Forcing it risks snapping the key inside the barrel. We cover the whole of Dorset, Hampshire, and Salisbury — an ignition barrel replacement at the roadside is well within what we carry on the van.

Question 8

Can a locksmith get into a locked car in Dorset or Hampshire?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and without causing any damage to the locks, paintwork, or window seals. We use specialist entry tools suited to the specific vehicle type, meaning the method is always matched to the make and model. The whole process typically takes under 15 minutes. We attend lock-in call-outs right across Dorset, Hampshire, and the Salisbury and Amesbury area, at the roadside, at home, and at workplaces.

Question 9

Can a locksmith make a car key without the original?

Accepted Answer

Yes — this is one of the most common jobs we do. Using your vehicle's lock profile and onboard diagnostic data, a key can be cut and programmed from scratch with no original required and no need to tow the car anywhere. This applies to the full range of key types: standard transponder keys, remote central locking keys, flip keys, and push-button smart/proximity keys. We carry the equipment to do this at the roadside throughout Dorset, Hampshire, and the Salisbury area.

Question 10

Can a locksmith unlock a steering wheel?

Accepted Answer

If the standard release technique hasn't worked, yes. We can inspect the ignition barrel causing the problem and repair or replace it at the roadside. In cases where the barrel has fully seized, we carry the parts and tools to extract and replace it on the same visit — no dealer trip needed. We attend throughout Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire including the Salisbury and New Forest areas.

Question 11

Do you operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We cover Dorset, Hampshire and Salisbury around the clock — days, nights, weekends and bank holidays — with no premium for unsocial hours. The same team that handles daytime call-outs covers overnight emergencies. Call the number at the top of the page at any time.

Question 12

Are your technicians DBS-checked?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All our technicians are DBS-checked (Disclosure and Barring Service). We always carry identification — if we're attending your home, workplace or a late-night call-out, you're welcome to ask to see it on arrival.

Car Key Won't Turn? Ignition Jammed?

We work on all makes and models

Car locksmith services

Car key extraction

Car key remote programming

Car key replacement

Car lock repair/replacement

Ignition repair/replacement

Locked keys in car

Business fleet & trade

Car key copying & cutting

Not sure what you need?

How we work

You call us anytime

We head your way

Problem solved

Real feedback

Need help now?

FAQs

Car ignition repair & replacement across Dorset, Hampshire & parts of Wiltshire