Ignition Switch Repair & Replacement
Ignition cylinder repair or full replacement. Mobile service — we come to your vehicle. Mobile service across Charlotte & Lake Norman, NC.
Key won't turn? Ignition feels sticky or grindy? Cylinder spins freely without starting? These are classic ignition wear symptoms — and most cars hit them around 80,000 to 150,000 miles. We diagnose on-site and fix or replace the cylinder right at your vehicle.
About 60% of 'ignition won't turn' calls turn out to be a worn key rather than a worn ignition. We can cut you a fresh key from the VIN to test before replacing the whole cylinder — saves you $200+ if that's the real problem.
Looking for ignition switch repair? The cylinder your key turns is what we repair and replace on-site. The switch is the electrical unit behind it: a purely electrical failure is auto-electrician work, and we tell you that on the phone. Our ignition switch replacement cost guide explains how to tell them apart.
Pricing
Flat-rate pricing confirmed on the phone before we dispatch. No hidden fees.
| Variant | Price |
|---|---|
Diagnosis + fresh key cut (often fixes it) | from $120 |
Ignition cylinder repair (lube, pin reset) | from $145 |
Full cylinder replacement (most cars) | from $245 |
Ignition + new transponder key | +$150 |
What's included
- On-site ignition repair
- Cylinder replacement available
- All major brands from Ford, GM, Chrysler, Japan and Korea
- Same key works after repair (when possible)
How it works
- 1
Call us with the symptom
Won't turn at all, turns but doesn't start, key sticks coming out — each points to a different problem. Tell us which.
- 2
On-site diagnosis
We test with a fresh-cut key first. If that fixes it, you pay $120 and we're done. If not, we move to cylinder repair or replacement.
- 3
Repair or replace
Cylinder removed, repaired or swapped, reinstalled. How long it takes depends on the vehicle. Often the original key still works after repair.
- 4
Test thoroughly
Start the car 5-10 times to confirm. We don't leave until it works perfectly.
Why choose us
- Diagnose first — many 'ignition problems' are just worn keys ($120 fix)
- On-site service, no tow needed
- Quoted on the phone — compare it to the dealer's replacement price
- NASTF certified for cars where the cylinder is paired to the immobilizer
- Original key often works after repair (no re-programming needed)
Common scenarios
Real situations we get called for — and what they typically cost.
Key won't turn at all
Could be worn key, worn cylinder, or jammed steering column. We diagnose it at your vehicle. Often fixed for $120 with a fresh key.
Cylinder turns but car won't start
Usually a transponder/programming issue, not an ignition problem. We diagnose and either reprogram the key or replace the cylinder if it's worn beyond use.
Sometimes turns, sometimes doesn't
Classic worn-cylinder symptom. Will get worse fast. Better to replace now ($245) than wait until you're stranded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you come to me?
We come to you. My Locksmith Express is a mobile locksmith, open 24/7: a licensed technician and a fully equipped van travel to your car or your door anywhere in the Charlotte and Lake Norman area. We send the closest available technician.
Are you cheaper than a dealership for car keys?
For most makes and models, yes. We program transponder keys, key fobs, and smart keys on-site without needing to tow your vehicle, and we quote the exact price on the phone before anyone drives out — so you can compare it to the dealer's number yourself.
Do you charge for an estimate?
No. We provide a written quote before any work begins. If you decide not to proceed, there is no charge.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. We hold NC Locksmith Licensing Board license #3024, $1,000,000 liability insurance, and we are fully bonded. We are also NASTF-certified for secure automotive key programming.
Do you serve my city?
We serve the entire Charlotte metro and Lake Norman area, including Charlotte, Cornelius, Huntersville, Davidson, Mooresville, Concord, Matthews, Pineville, Denver, Troutman, Kannapolis, Statesville, and Sherrills Ford.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. We also accept cash and most digital wallets.
Need a locksmith now?
Mobile units come to you, 24/7. Quote before we start.
