My key won't turn—is it the key or the ignition?

Could be either. We diagnose this on-site. If a different key (like a spare) works fine, it's your key. If no key works, it's the cylinder. If all keys are difficult, you might need both. We test and tell you honestly.

How much does ignition replacement cost?

It varies significantly by vehicle. Ignition cylinder replacements include new keys and full programming. Luxury vehicles with complex immobilizer systems cost more. We provide a transparent diagnostic quote for your specific vehicle after on-site assessment.

Do I need to tow my car to a dealer?

Usually no. We complete most ignition repairs on-site—whether that's your driveway, a parking lot, or the side of the road. No towing means you save time and avoid the hassle.

Will I get new keys with a new ignition?

Yes. A new ignition cylinder comes with new keys, and we program them to work with your vehicle's immobilizer. You typically get 2-3 new keys depending on the vehicle.

Car won't start but turns over—is that ignition?

Probably not. If the key turns and the engine cranks (turns over) but doesn't start, that's usually fuel, spark, or sensor—not ignition. We can help diagnose, but that may need a mechanic.

Ignition Repair in Delaware | Kwikey Locksmith

0+ Years Experience

Certified & Insured

Fast Response Times

5-Star Rated

Delaware & SE Pennsylvania

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Diagnose First

We identify whether the problem is the key, cylinder, switch, or something else—accurate diagnosis prevents unnecessary repairs

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Upfront Pricing

Transparent diagnostic quote after on-site assessment, approved before we start any work

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Fix It Right

Proper repair with quality parts and new keys when needed. Your ignition works like new.

Problems We Solve

Common Ignition Problems

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Key Is Stuck in the Ignition

You can't remove it. Maybe the steering lock is engaged, maybe the cylinder is worn, maybe something broke internally. Either way, you're not walking away from your car. We extract keys without damage.

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Key Won't Turn At All

You're sitting in the driver's seat with a key that fits but won't rotate. Worn cylinder, damaged wafers, or a key that's been slowly dying. We diagnose whether it's the key, the cylinder, or both.

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Ignition Has Been Getting Worse for Months

First you had to jiggle it. Then wiggle it just right. Now you're using two hands. This is a worn cylinder failing progressively—and it will strand you eventually. Better to fix it proactively.

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Car Clicks But Won't Start (Not the Battery)

You turned the key, heard a click, nothing happened—but the battery is fine. Could be the ignition switch failing to send signal to the starter. We diagnose electrical vs. mechanical issues.

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Key Broke Off Inside the Ignition

The worst outcome of forcing a worn ignition. Half the key is in your hand, half is stuck inside. We extract the broken piece and determine if the cylinder is salvageable.

Professional technician repairing a damaged ignition cylinder on-site

verified Certified (DE-LCK-19805 / PA-HIC-15820)

Need Ignition Repair?

Call us for prompt, professional service across Delaware & Greater Philadelphia.

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Our Process

How We Fix Ignition Issues

1

We Come to You

Your car is stuck wherever it is. We dispatch a mobile technician with diagnostic tools and common ignition parts.

2

Diagnose the Root Cause

Is it the key, the cylinder, the switch, or the steering column? We identify exactly what's failing before recommending anything.

3

Transparent Diagnostic Quote Before We Work

You know the transparent diagnostic quote—and whether it's worth it for your vehicle—before we touch anything.

4

Repair or Replace On-Site

Most ignition repairs and replacements are completed right in your driveway. New cylinder, new keys, everything programmed.

5

Test and Verify

We test repeatedly: key inserts smoothly, turns easily, starts the car, comes out when it should. Don't leave until it works perfectly.

Why Choose Us

Why Mobile Ignition Repair

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On-Site Diagnostic Resolution

Don't pay for a tow just to find out your ignition is fine. Our mobile technicians perform a comprehensive on-site diagnosis to identify exactly where the mechanical or electrical failure lies before any parts are replaced.

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Precision Wafer & Cylinder Care

Ignition mechanisms are high-precision components. We use specialized techniques to repair existing cylinders where possible, or replace them with high-grade components that match your vehicle's original security specifications.

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Integrated Programming Suite

When replacing an ignition cylinder, we provide a complete set of new keys and handle the complex transponder or smart-key programming on-site. Your new keys will work perfectly with your car's immobilizer system.

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Dealer-Grade Hardware

We source and install only high-quality replacement cylinders and ignition switches that meet or exceed OEM standards. You get the same reliability and security as a dealership repair with the added convenience of on-site service.

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Trusted Professionals

Serving Delaware & Greater Philadelphia

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Service Features

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All vehicle makes and models
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Key stuck? We extract without damage
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Ignition cylinder replacement with new keys
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Ignition switch diagnosis and repair
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Transponder programming included when needed
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Mobile service—we come to your location

Client Testimonials

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Reviews

4.8 out of 5

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"My truck's ignition was getting harder to turn each week. Kwikey found corroded wafers and replaced the lock cylinder before I got stranded somewhere. Preventive maintenance done right."

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Alex K. Greenville, DE

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"Key wouldn't come out of the ignition on my GMC Sierra. Steering wheel wasn't locked—it was the ignition switch. Kwikey replaced it in my driveway and now it works perfectly. No tow truck needed!"

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Ben T. Swarthmore, PA

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"Ignition cylinder replacement on my older Chevy Silverado. Tech matched the new cylinder to my existing key so I don't have to carry two keys. Attention to detail like this is why I recommend Kwikey!"

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Carlos R. Wilmington, DE

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"Key stuck in my Honda's ignition and wouldn't come out. Turned out the ignition switch was worn. Tech replaced it in my driveway and the car starts like new. Way easier than dealing with the dealer!"

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Catherine Z. Ridley Park, PA

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"Ignition was sticking on my F-150 for months. Finally called Kwikey before I got completely stranded. Fixed it in my driveway professionally. Truck starts like new now. Should have called sooner!"

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Charles R. Middletown, DE

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"Key would not turn in the ignition of my Ford Focus. Kwikey diagnosed a worn wafer in the cylinder, replaced the ignition, and coded a new key to match. Starts perfectly now."

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Daniel J. New Castle, DE

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"Ignition cylinder was loose and the steering column would not lock. Kwikey replaced the full assembly, including the lock cylinder and electrical switch. Vehicle runs and locks like new."

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Donald N. Claymont, DE

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"Car would crank but not start — turned out to be an ignition switch issue. Kwikey replaced the electrical contacts behind the cylinder and the engine fired right up."

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George X. Pike Creek, DE

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"The key got stuck in the ignition and would not come out. Kwikey freed it by lubricating the worn tumblers and cutting a fresh key that matched the improved cylinder."

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Jeffrey B. Brookside, DE

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"My Dodge ignition intermittently refused to start. Turned out the anti-theft chip in the key was failing. Kwikey programmed a new transponder key and the problem disappeared."

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Joshua S. Elsmere, DE

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"Ignition was getting sticky on my old Chevy. Kwikey diagnosed a worn cylinder, replaced it, and cut new keys. The ignition turns smoothly now like it did when the truck was new."

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Kevin B. Pike Creek, DE

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"Steering wheel lock engaged while the car was running. Very scary situation. Kwikey diagnosed a broken ignition actuating pin, replaced it, and the wheel turns freely now."

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Nicholas F. Glasgow, DE

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Frequently Asked

Ignition Repair FAQs

What information do you need when I call?

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For the most efficient service, have ready: your location (address or cross streets), type of lockout (home, car, business), vehicle year/make/model if automotive, and any details about your lock type if you know them. This helps us dispatch the right tech with the right tools.

Can you program transponder chip keys on-site?

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Absolutely. Our technicians use high-end diagnostic equipment to program transponder chips and key fobs on-site. This eliminates the need for expensive dealership towing and provides a faster solution for modern vehicle security.

What areas do you serve?

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Our mobile service units provide professional coverage across New Castle County, Delaware, and the Greater Philadelphia region, including Chester and Delaware counties. Whether you are in Wilmington, Newark, West Chester, or Media, we bring our specialized equipment directly to your location.

Should I get a spare car key made?

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Definitely. Getting a spare now is a highly recommended safety measure compared to what you'll experience during an emergency lockout. Plus, programming a spare is simpler and more straightforward when you have a working key to reference.

Do I need to make an appointment or can you come now?

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Both work! For emergencies, we prioritize your call. For scheduled work like lock installation or rekeying, we can book appointments that fit your schedule. Tell us your preference when you call.

I lost all my car keys. Can you still help?

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Absolutely. We can create a new key from scratch for most vehicles. We'll verify ownership, program a new transponder or smart key, and have you driving again. This is much more convenient than towing to a dealership.