Ignition Repair

Q: How can I tell the ignition switch is bad?

Accessories may power on, but the engine fails to crank in START. The dash lights can flicker in RUN and then shut off when you turn the key. A switch test shows no power leaving the switch to the starter circuit.

Amarillo Ignition Repair Near Me for Cars, Trucks, and SUVs

Frog’s Safe & Key fixes ignition problems for drivers across Amarillo and nearby towns. Our auto locksmith team repairs worn ignition cylinders, replaces faulty ignition switches, and rekeys ignitions to match new or existing keys. You leave with a key that turns smoothly, starts the engine, and secures the steering wheel as designed.

The interior dashboard of a Mercedes car.

Our automotive locksmiths support most makes and models of vehicle, including Mercedes.

We service domestic, foreign, and German vehicles every week. That includes Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Toyota, Honda, Lexus, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen. We back ignition repair and replacement with a 90-day warranty on labor and parts.

When the key sticks or will not turn, we find the cause and fix it. Common issues include worn wafers in the lock cylinder, a bent or worn key blade, and failed switches that cut power to the starter motor. We check the accessory, run, and start positions and confirm a clean operation before you drive.

Signs Your Ignition Needs Service

Key turns part way, then stops before the start position
Steering wheel locks hard and the key turns only after gently wiggling the wheel
Accessories power on but the engine does not crank in the start position
Key pulls out while the engine runs or the cylinder feels loose
Metal shavings on the key or a tip that looks shiny and worn

What We Check During Ignition Diagnostics

Key blade wear and burrs on the tip and sides
Steering wheel locking pressure and shifter interlock function
Ignition lock cylinder wafers and spring condition
Ignition switch power in accessory, run, and start positions
Battery health and ground paths that affect starter performance

Repair, Replace, or Rekey

Repair works when the lock cylinder sticks but the housing is sound. We service wafers and springs, clean the keyway, and return smooth key travel. Replacement makes sense when the lock body cracks or the ignition switch fails and drops power in the start position.

Rekeying is the right call after an all-keys-lost event or a used vehicle purchase. We set the ignition lock cylinder to a new key and, on request, match the door locks. This step restores access control and keeps every lock on the same key.

All Keys Lost Plus Ignition Service

We handle lost keys and ignition issues in one visit. We create a new key by decoding the lock and programming it when the platform requires pairing. We also service or rekey the cylinder so the new key fits cleanly and turns to start without force.

When Programming Fits the Job

Modern cars use chips and security modules that link the key to the vehicle. New switches and keys often need on-vehicle programming to restore start authorization. We connect diagnostics, enter programming mode, write the chip data, verify buttons, and start on your platform.

Trucks and Vans in Amarillo

Local work depends on trucks and service vans, and we support those vehicles daily. We repair and rekey ignitions on work sites, yards, and offices so routes stay active. Dust, vibration, and long hours wear parts through the season, so we clean the keyway, replace worn components, and confirm a solid start with the correct key.

Tips Before We Arrive

Use the correct key and check the blade for heavy wear or bends. Turn the steering wheel a small amount off the stop, then turn the key gently toward the run position. Avoid force on the key and skip oily sprays in the lock cylinder since they trap grit and block wafers.

We keep the visit direct and straightforward. Share the year, make, and model, and describe the symptom in a sentence or two. We bring the right parts and tools and finish many ignition jobs in one appointment.

Need Ignition Repair in Amarillo? We Can Help!

Contact Frog’s Safe & Key to schedule mobile or in-shop ignition service. Tell us your year, make, and model and whether you need repair, rekey, or switch replacement. We serve Amarillo and nearby towns within a 60-mile radius, and many jobs are finished in one visit. We align ignition work with any needed door lock service, then hand you keys that turn smoothly and start the engine.

Ignition Repair FAQs

How much does it cost to fix an ignition?

The cost of ignition repair depends on the parts and labor for your model. The price changes with ignition switch replacement versus ignition lock cylinder service. Contact us with your vehicle details so we can estimate the cost of your ignition repair.

Can an ignition be repaired, or does it need replacement?

Many ignitions improve with lock cylinder repair and fresh wafers and springs. Cracked housings or a faulty ignition switch require replacement and proper installation. We test the starter motor’s power and verify that the key turns and the engine starts.

Why won't my car key turn in the ignition?

There are several common reasons for this issue. One frequent cause is a locked steering wheel. If the wheel was turned after the car was turned off, it can lock the ignition in place. Another potential issue is the gear shifter. If your car isn’t fully in park or neutral, the key may not turn. However, if these quick fixes don’t work, the problem is likely a worn-out key or damaged ignition lock cylinder.

What can I do when the key will not turn in the ignition?

Use the correct key and inspect the blade for heavy wear. Turn the steering wheel a small amount off the stop and turn the key gently toward start. Insert the key fully, avoid force, and try a spare key to rule out damage, then contact our locksmith. We can help to remove the key carefully if it gets stuck.

How do I start a car with a bad ignition switch?

Do not jump wiring or bypass sensors to force a start. Our team tests power and grounds, identifies the failed switch, and performs a safe fix. We replace the faulty part, program keys in most cases, and verify that the engine starts and the dash stays clear.

How can I tell the ignition switch is bad?

Accessories power on, but the engine fails to crank in start. The dash lights flicker in the run position and then shut off when you turn the key. A switch test shows no power leaving the switch to the starter circuit.

Does a replacement ignition switch need programming?

Many modern cars require programmed keys after switch or cylinder work. Transponder keys and security systems need a proper code so the vehicle authorizes a start. We program the key, verify lock and unlock, and test run and start positions.

Will a locksmith replace the ignition switch?

Yes, we remove the faulty ignition switch or lock cylinder and install a new unit. We also rekey to match the correct key and program transponders when required. Finally, we test steering wheel locking, shifter release, and start sequence before you leave.

How much does it cost to replace a car ignition key?

Cost depends on the key type and process. Traditional keys need cutting, and transponder keys require programming on the vehicle. Share your year, make, and model so we can quote the replacement key accurately.

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