Ignition Jammed or Key Won't Turn? Don't Replace the Whole Column

Specialist Auto Locksmith & Key Programming in Greater Manchester and surrounding areas

We repair and replace faulty ignition barrels on-site in Greater Manchester. Save up to 50% compared to dealership prices by repairing your existing lock instead of replacing the entire steering unit.

Why Repair Instead of Replace?

When an ignition jams, main dealers will often tell you that you need a completely new steering column and a new set of keys (which then need programming). This can cost hundreds of pounds and take days or weeks to order.

Our solution is different:

  • We Remove the Barrel: We carefully extract just the faulty lock barrel from the housing.

  • We Re-Pin the Lock: Instead of forcing you to have a new key, we can often replace the worn internal “wafers” or pins so the lock works perfectly with your existing key.

  • We Save You Money: By fixing the specific mechanical fault, you avoid the cost of new ECUs or steering columns.

Vehicles We Commonly Repair

  • Ford Transit & Custom:  The wafers in Ford barrels are prone to wear resulting in the ignition no longer turning. We can remove the barrel and replace the worn wafers leaving the barrel good as new. We carry replacement parts in all our vans.

  • Volkswagen / Audi / Seat: both the ignition switch and steering lock are prone to failure on VAG group vehicles. we can diagnose the fault and only replace the necessary parts.

  • Honda: Older Honda ignitions are prone to jamming. We can strip the lock down and replace the worn wafers to make it smooth again.

  • Peugeot / Citroen: Key snapping inside the ignition is common. We can extract the broken blade and cut a new one.

How it Works

  • Diagnosis: We arrive and inspect the fault. Is it the key? The barrel? Or the steering lock housing?

  • Extraction: We use specialist tools to remove the barrel (even if it is stuck in the “Locked” position).

  • Repair or Swap: We either repair the internal components or fit a brand-new high-quality barrel.

  • Testing: We ensure the steering lock engages and disengages correctly before we leave.

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Emergency Vehicle Entry

Fast, non-destructive entry for keys locked in the boot or cabin. We use specialist Lishi picks to open your door exactly like a key—100% damage-free guaranteed.

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Lost Key Replacement

Don’t tow your car to the dealer. We cut and program new keys at the roadside for Ford, BMW, Audi, VW, and more. We can also delete the old/stolen keys from your car’s memory to ensure your vehicle is secure.

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Ignition Barrel Repair

Ignition jammed or key snapped inside? We repair or replace faulty ignition barrels on-site without needing a new ECU. Common fixes for Ford Transit, Volkswagen, and Honda models carried out while you wait.

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