Battery Problems

Before you start calling Hampton, VA tow trucks and repair shops consider that the problem may be your car battery. There are some simple and fast ways to tell. Check and see if your dashboard lights come on. If you don’t see them, check to see if the dimmer switch is on. Many of us have been fooled by that crazy dimmer switch that can make us think that the batter is dead. You can also check your car radio, windshield wipers, emergency blinkers and headlights as they all run on battery power.

Stuck Items

Did your battery pass the test? Now what? Now, we check for stuck items in the ignition switch. Don’t laugh – it happens! Did your key go in without problem or did it feel “off” a bit and you thought that odd? Also, check to see if your steering wheel lock is on. On most models, this lock prevents the key from turning and your whole ignition problem could be as simple as that!

Are You In Park?

This is one of the most common reasons that ignitions won’t start. Here at Locksmith Hampton we often see this problem. In most cars, your ignition simply won’t turn over if the car is not in gear. This means PARK. Check to see. Try wiggling the shift a little to make sure. We urge you to use the parking brake when checking all these items. You have enough on your mind without the vehicle rolling back on someone or into the street. Often, the car is in Neutral or still in Drive so be extra sure that Park is what you have!

Is The Car’s Ignition Already Switched To On?

Sometimes the ignition key gets stuck and won’t come out. This is often the case when the ignition switch is already in the ON position. There’s a built-in safety mechanism that prevents the car from turning off when bumped. Imagine how horrible it would be if you were driving down the road and accidentally nudged the ignition switch, turning it off! Yikes! Carefully check to see that the car’s ignition is on OFF. Now remove the key and re-insert while trying to start the car. Is the key stuck completely? Don’t apply too much force; all you need on top of an ignition problem is a broken off and stuck key! Gently try and remove the key and if it seems jammed in there, gently rock the steering wheel back and forth and see if this dislodges it.

Should You Call A Friend?

Much like that famous game show where you are allowed to phone a friend if you get stuck, ignition problems allow that, too. Be careful though. If your friend is a mechanic or pretty experienced in working on cars; that might be great! Or, if your friend or family member is well meaning but not knowledgeable, it could spell disaster. Following the wrong advice can lead to bigger repair bills and ruined relationships so be choosy whom you call and what advice you take! Of course, you can always call our friendly and ever available automotive locksmiths here Locksmith Hampton. If you didn’t already know, we offer free consultations, free price quotes and fast, 24-hour service direct to your vehicle.

Google It!

Now, with the prevalence of smart phones, laptops, tablets and desktops, the internet is readily available pretty much anywhere you are. If you want a basically free dose of advice, check the World Wide Web. Simply type into your browser the subject you are looking for followed by the word “forum.” Let’s say you drive a Hyundai Elantra and you want to see what others have to say about ignition problems with this model. You could enter the words “Hyundai Elantra ignition problems forum” and you will see dozens of forum posts from people that experienced the same problem. You can post your own details or just read how others handled similar situations. You can also search popular video sites like YouTube and Vimeo as they have similar search bars. Keep in mind that some professionals post here too so all the comments are not from unhappy amateurs.

Call A Locksmith!

Are we biased? Of course! Locksmith Hampton knows the automotive lock business; in fact, we specialize in it. On the other hand, we don’t know your budget or particular circumstances. Do you need a free solution where you don’t mind waiting for the right solutions and their applications? The above tips work great for that! Are you in a hurry and/or do you have a small budget to help get results? In that case using an automotive locksmith in Hampton, VA is your best bet. There is no one-size fits all solution to ignition cylinder problems and their solutions. Each circumstance is different so it’s best that you follow your heart (and pocketbook!) and do what’s best for you. If you decide that professional locksmith service is the answer; don’t forget to give our friendly and always helpful staff at Locksmith Hampton a call!