Category: Automotive Locksmith

Ignition Lock Issues

What to Do If Your Vehicle’s Ignition Lock Is Having Issues

Imagine this scenario: you’re headed out for an important meeting or a long-awaited road trip, and when you insert the key into your car’s ignition, it just won’t turn. Perhaps the key gets stuck, or maybe it won’t go in at all. Ignition lock issues can be frustrating and stressful, but fear not! In this article, we will explore some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve ignition lock problems.

  1. Check the Key. Before assuming an issue with the ignition lock, inspect your key. Over time, keys can become worn or damaged, leading to difficulties when inserting or turning them in the ignition. Examine your key for signs of wear, such as bent or jagged edges. If you notice any damage, it might be time to get a new key cut or contact your car dealer for a replacement.
  2. Lubricate the Lock. Another common cause of ignition lock issues is a lack of lubrication. Over time, dirt, debris, or lack of use can cause the lock cylinder to become dry, making it difficult for the key to turn smoothly. Applying a graphite-based lubricant to the lock can help improve its functionality. Be cautious not to use any liquid-based lubricants as they can attract dirt and create more problems.
  3. Wiggle the Steering Wheel. Sometimes, the ignition lock can get stuck due to a tension lock mechanism tied to the steering wheel. If you find that your key won’t turn, try gently wiggling the steering wheel left and right while attempting to turn the key at the same time. This action may release the tension and allow the key to turn freely.
  4. Utilize a Spare Key. If you have access to a spare key for your vehicle, give it a try. In some cases, a specific key may have worn down more than another, causing issues in turning the lock. Switching to a different key might solve the problem.
  5. Seek Professional Assistance. If you’ve tried all these steps and your vehicle’s ignition lock still refuses to cooperate, it’s time to call in the professionals. An experienced mobile locksmith can quickly diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring

At Discount Locksmith, we pride ourselves in providing professional emergency locksmith service day & night to help in your time of need. Not only can our technicians repair broken ignition locks, but they can also replace broken car keys on the spot!

To request service, call (855) 766-8899

locked out of car

The Top 5 Ways to Open a Locked Vehicle… as recommended by the AI chat bot, ChatGPT

I asked ChatGPT, an AI chat bot, "What are the top 5 ways to open a locked vehicle?" and below is the response (along with my response to each recommendation!)

ChatGPT: If you find yourself in a situation where you've locked your keys in your car, you may be feeling frustrated and helpless. Fortunately, there are several ways you can try to open a locked vehicle, ranging from simple tricks to more complex methods. Here are the top five ways to open a locked vehicle:

  1. Use a coat hanger: This classic method involves using a wire coat hanger to unlock your car door. First, straighten out the hanger and create a hook at one end. Then, insert the hook into the top of the car door, near the lock, and try to catch the lock mechanism. Once you've caught it, wiggle the hanger around until the lock pops open.Should you use a coathanger to unlock a car door? We'll first of all, do you even have a wire coathanger available? Sure this method may work if you but with the style of moden vehicle locks and anti-theft features this method is not as easy as it may have been with the old style door locks.
  2. Use a wedge: If you have a door wedge, you can use it to create a gap between the car door and the frame. This will allow you to insert a tool, such as a flathead screwdriver, to manipulate the lock mechanism. To use a wedge, simply slide it between the door and the frame until it creates a wide enough gap.Using a wedget to create a cap in your door frame may enable you to reach a tool into the vehicle to unlock the door (not sure about using a flathead screwdriver though!) But you do need to be carful to not damage the door, the weather sealing, scratch the vehicle or break a window.
  3. Use a slim jim: A slim jim is a specialized tool that is designed to unlock car doors. It consists of a thin, flat piece of metal with a hooked end. To use a slim jim, you'll need to insert it into the gap between the window and the door, and then use the hooked end to catch the lock mechanism. This method can be tricky, so it's best to practice on a similar car before attempting it on your own.I do not recommend using a slimjim to unlock the door on any modern style vehicle. It won't work on may and you may damage elecrical components or vehcile saftey features such as the air bag in the door!
  4. Use a shoestring: If you don't have a coat hanger or a slim jim on hand, you may be able to use a shoestring to unlock your car. To do this, tie a simple knot in the shoestring, and then insert it into the lock mechanism through the keyhole. Next, gently pull on the string to try to unlock the door.A shoestring through the keyhole? LOL! If you have a keyhole in your car door lock, go for it! But even through a crack in the window I dobt you'll have much luck unlocking the door unless you're able to hook and pull a door handle.
  5. Call a locksmith: If none of the above methods work, your best option may be to call a professional locksmith. A locksmith will have the tools and expertise to unlock your car without damaging it, and can often arrive quickly to help you out. Just be prepared to pay a fee for their services.Being a locksmith company of course I'm going to agree with #5...ha! But if you are looking for the best option to unlocking a vehcile and getting back in without damaging the vehilce then yes, call us! We not only have the tools and experience to quickly open locked doors but we can also provide additional services suce as repairing locks and ignitions and making replacement car keys if needed.

ChatGPT: In conclusion, if you find yourself locked out of your car, there are several ways you can try to unlock it. From using a coat hanger or wedge to calling a locksmith, there are options for every situation. Just be sure to use caution when attempting to open your car, as you don't want to damage the lock or the door.

Discount Locksmith: In conclusion, if you find yourself locked out of your are - call us now at 855-766-8899

There are a few methods for opening a locked vehicle. Watch the video above from "Free Locksmith Training" to see a quick and simple method of unlocking a vehicle door.

make car keys

Making a new key for a 2007 Bentley Flying Spur

 

Made a new key for a customer with a 2007 Bentley Flying Spur in the St. Louis, MO area which is just one of the many high end car keys done by our professional locksmith technicians. Replacement key services are Technicians Available and will come to your location with all the tools required to laser cut and program new keys for your vehicle's make and model.

We Can:

  • Make new car keys
  • High-security laser cut keys
  • Program transponder “chip” keys and FOB
  • Program key and car alarm remotes
  • Keyless keys programming and replacement
Door Lock Rekey

Door Lock Rekey and Repair | Home – Auto – Business

Lost keys, broken or worn out locks that stick or won’t turn? Rather than replacing the entire door lock knob or handle, the quicker and more affordable option is to repair or rekey the existing lock. This can be done by removing and replacing the existing lock cylinder with a new one or just replacing the pins inside the lock cylinder.

Lock Cylinder Replacement

Technicians can remove the existing lock cylinder form the knob or handles and then replace it with a new cylinder. They can either make you new keys for the lock or set up the new cylinder pins to work with your existing keys.

Rekey Door Lock

Another option is rather than replacing the entire lock cylinder, technicians can remove the existing cylinder and then just replace the springs and pins within the cylinder so that it works like new. Again, the technician can either set up the repaired cylinder with new keys or rekey the cylinder to work with your existing keys.

Discount Locksmith locksmith technicians are Technicians Available, seven days a week for emergency lockout services, locks repairs, installations or to make new replacement keys. Call now for either immediate service or to schedule an appointment.

2016 Hyundai Sonata Keys

We Cut & Program New Car Keys | 24/7 Mobile Locksmith

Want to know how to get a new key for your car?

Lost your car keys? We can help! Discount Locksmith emergency locksmith technicians are Technicians Available, seven days a week to make you new keys. Don’t waste time trying to schedule an appointment at the dealership or pay the high cost for a new key. We can meet you at your location day or night at a time that is convenient for you. Our mobile tech are equipped with the latest equipment for making new keys for car, truck, SUVs, and motorcycles. Call now and we can assist you within minutes!

 
 
 

Need a new or duplicate transponder key or FOB?

Most cars have high security keys with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your car and remotes that need to be programmed to open your car door. We can make new or duplicate high security keys and program the transponder or keyless FOB. Making new keys involves cutting the new key and then getting a code for you your key to program it to work with your car. Key technology has advanced greatly within recent years and require trained professionals with specialized equipment and computers to make new keys.

Discount Locksmith Mobile Automotive Key Cutting Services

  • Make a new key without a key
  • Make a car key copy or duplication
  • Make high-security car keys
  • Make and program transponder keys
  • Make keyless entry keys
  • Program Transponder keys
  • Program keyless FOB
  • Gas cap key
  • Transponder key replacement
  • Transponder chip key
  • Replacement car keys with chips
  • How does a transponder key work
  • Duplicate car keys with chips
  • Transponder key programming instructions
  • Cutting keys by Code on-Site
  • Laser cut keys
  • Dealer chip keys programmed on-site
  • Remotes programmed
  • Electronic keys
  • Keyless remotes
  • VATS keys
  • New trunk keys
  • Replacing lost car keys
  • Making replacement car keys
mobile key cutting
mobile key cutting
2016 Hyundai Sonata Keys
2016 Hyundai Sonata Keys

Making New Car Keys Vehicle Makes & Models

  • Acura
  • Audi
  • BMW
  • Buick
  • Cadillac
  • Chevrolet
  • Chrysler
  • Dodge
  • Ford
  • GMC
  • Honda
  • Hummer
  • Hyundai
  • Infiniti
  • Isuzu
  • Jaguar
  • Jeep
  • Kia Motors
  • Land Rover
  • Lexus
  • Lincoln
  • Lotus
  • Mazda
  • Mercedes-Benz
  • Mercury
  • Mitsubishi
  • Nissan USA
  • Oldsmobile
  • Pontiac
  • Regal Buick
  • Saab
  • Saturn
  • Subaru
  • Suzuki
  • Toyota
  • Volkswagen
  • Volvo
emergency car locksmith

24 Hour Emergency Car Locksmith Lockout & Key

24 Hour Emergency Car Locksmith Lockout & Key

emergency car locksmithLocked out of your car? Broken door lock or need new keys fast? Discount Locksmith  technicians are Technicians Available, seven days a week to assist you in your emergency lockout and key vehicle needs! With fast Mobile locksmith service time* our professional mobile car locksmith technicians can be at your location fast and have you cak in your car within minutes!

Open Locked Car Doors

You can do costly damage to your car if you try to open a locked door or trunk yourself which may lead to even high repair costs. If you try to open a car door with a coathanger you may damage your vehicle’s paint finish, windows or the rubber seals around the window. Try to open a locked car door with a bobby pin or try and open a trunk or locked door with a screwdriver and you could damage the lock requiring even more costly repairs to the locks or even having have all new keys made. Contact a Discount Locksmith professional auto lock technician and we can open your door fast and easily without damaging your vehicle.

Make New Car Keys

Our mobile Discount Locksmith technicians can come to your location at home, work, parking lot or anywhere in an emergency or at a time that best meets your busy schedule. We have the equipment to make keys for all different makes and modes of ca. Don’t take time out of your day to schedule an appointment at a dealership and pay their high prices. We can come to you and laser cut new high security car keys, program transponder keys and remotes, and make you a new or duplicate keyless FOB.

Emergency Ignition Repair

Car won’t start? Worn out ignition? Don’t get stranded, our technicians can help diagnose the problem and install or repair your car ignition coil. If your car ignition switch won’t turn or  your car key won’t turn the ignition switch, give us a call and we can help. Don’t let a bad ignition switch or broken lock cylinder ruin your day. We are familiar with ignition switch problems and symptoms and can fix it for you.

Emergency Car Lockout

  • Available 24/7
  • Open locked car door
  • Get keys out of locked car
  • Car door service
  • Open locked trunks
  • Open locked glove compartment

Make New Car Keys

  • Aftermarket electronic car keys
  • Laser cut keys
  • High security car keys
  • Transponder keys
  • Program chip keys
  • New keyless FOB

Vehicle Ignition Service

  • Install new ignition switch
  • Broken key extraction
  • Repair ignition switch that won’t turn
  • Ignition switch wiring