Common ignition problems we fix
- Key won't turn — the most common call. Usually worn wafers in the cylinder, a worn key, or both.
- Key turns only after jiggling — an early warning. Fixing it now is cheaper than after the cylinder seizes.
- Key stuck in the ignition — won't come out even in Park.
- Broken key in the ignition — half the key is still inside.
- Steering wheel locked — the wheel won't move and the key won't turn.
Don't force the key
If the key doesn't turn, forcing it can snap the key inside the cylinder or break the parts behind it. First, make sure the car is in Park (or Neutral for a manual), turn the steering wheel gently both ways while turning the key, and try a spare key if you have one. If none of that works, leave it and call (352) 450-0512.
Honda and Volkswagen ignitions
We see a lot of worn ignitions on older Honda Civics, Accords, CR-Vs and Volkswagen Jettas and Passats — the kind of reliable, high-mileage cars that are all over Gainesville, from student commutes to farm trucks in Archer and Hawthorne. In most cases we can rebuild the cylinder with new wafers and cut a matching key right at the car, which costs much less than a new ignition from the dealer.
Rebuild or replace?
When the cylinder can be rebuilt, you keep your car's original key code and the door keys still match. If the housing is damaged, we replace the cylinder and key it to your door locks, so you still carry one key. We explain the options and the price before we start.