Car key will not turn in the ignition: what to tell a locksmith
A clear description can help separate a physical key or lock issue from a car that turns over but does not start. Avoid adding force while you work out the next step.
What you need to know
- Explain whether the key enters, turns and comes out.
- Stop if extra force seems necessary.
- Keep any broken pieces and send a clear photo.
Be precise about “will not start”
Tell Sebastian whether the key enters fully, whether it turns and whether you can remove it. If the key turns normally but the engine does not start, describe what happens next. Those are different symptoms from a blade physically stuck in the ignition. A short video can help show the point where the normal movement stops, without repeatedly forcing it.
Use only the normal vehicle instructions
Vehicle handbooks may describe normal starting conditions or steering-lock behaviour for the model. Follow those instructions rather than a general trick from another vehicle. If there is resistance or something feels likely to break, stop. Do not apply extra leverage, strike the key or put glue into the lock. These actions can create a damaged key as well as the original fault.
Mention the spare and the history
If another key is available, say whether it has behaved differently under normal use. Explain whether the problem appeared suddenly or became worse over several weeks. A worn blade, damaged lock or another fault can give overlapping symptoms. Tell Sebastian about previous work, accidental damage and a key that has been bent or repaired. The timeline is often more useful than a guessed diagnosis.
If the key has snapped
Retain the remaining pieces and state whether part is still inside the ignition or a door lock. Do not attempt to glue it back together in place. A photograph of what is visible may help assess the request, but the break position and lock condition need checking. Extraction, repair and replacement are different possible parts of the work and should not be assumed to be interchangeable.
Get the situation assessed
Include the registration and present vehicle location, and say whether the car can be secured or moved. For an urgent problem during working hours, call to check availability. If it is safely parked, send details on WhatsApp or request a quote for planned assessment. Sebastian can discuss a suitable next step before the visit is arranged. You can agree the work by phone or message; online booking is optional.
Let’s get the next step sorted.
Send the vehicle details, or call if you need help now.