Key goes in but won't turn? Don't force it.
When a key slides in but won't rotate, the problem is usually a worn key, a dirty or damaged cylinder, or a misaligned door or ignition. Forcing it is the quickest way to snap the key, so let us diagnose and fix the real cause.
Licensed and insured
Professional local locksmith
Easy to work with
Clear, friendly communication
Skilled workmanship
Car, home, and business
Fully mobile
We come to you in the Triangle
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A key that won't turn rarely means the lock is ruined. Most of the time it's a tired key whose cuts have worn down, gunk or debris inside the cylinder, or a door that's sagged out of alignment so the bolt binds. On vehicles, a worn ignition or a steering-wheel lock can be the cause. We find the actual problem and fix it, often without replacing anything.
Have a question about your situation? Give us a call and we will talk it through.
Call (984) 381-7611What to do right now
- 1Stop applying forceCranking harder is how keys break. Back off the pressure before you turn a small fix into a broken-key extraction.
- 2Jiggle gently and check alignmentLift or push the door slightly while turning, if the bolt is binding on the frame, easing the door's weight can help. For a car ignition, wiggle the steering wheel side to side while turning the key.
- 3Try graphite, not oilA puff of dry graphite lubricant can free a sticky pin stack. Avoid household oil or WD-40, which gums up over time and attracts grit.
- 4Call us to diagnose and repairIf it still won't turn, we'll inspect the key and cylinder, clean or repair the lock, realign the hardware, or cut a fresh key cut to the correct depths.
How we approach the work
We diagnose the issue first and explain the repair before any work begins, whether that is a new key, a cylinder service, or a hardware adjustment. You always approve the work up front.
Why neighbors call Mr. Locksmith
- Accurate diagnosis, we fix the cause, not just the symptom
- Fresh keys cut to factory depths to stop sticking
- Lock cleaning, repair, and realignment on site
- Fully mobile service across the Triangle
- Licensed and insured
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Why does my key only turn sometimes?
- That usually means the key is worn or the cylinder pins are dirty or sticking. A freshly cut key or a cylinder cleaning typically solves it.
- My car key won't turn in the ignition, what's wrong?
- Often it's a worn key or the steering-wheel lock engaging. Wiggle the wheel while turning gently; if it persists, we can service the ignition or cut a new key.
- Can you fix it without replacing the whole lock?
- Most of the time, yes. Cleaning, repair, realignment, or a new key resolves it without a full lock replacement.
Service Area
We serve the whole Triangle
Because we are fully mobile, we come to you across the Triangle and its surrounding suburbs.
Real Google Reviews
What customers say
These are real reviews left by customers on our Google Business Profile. Names and wording are kept exactly as written.
"Guy who came out is amazing. He fixed the problem and was fast, polite and knew what he was doing. I appreciate the service so much."
"Very impressed with this locksmith service. Communication was easy and the entire process was quick and stress free. Reliable and efficient."
"Awesome work. Precise and professional. 100% recommend."
We are grateful to every customer who takes the time to leave a review and recommend us to their neighbors. If we have helped you, a review is always appreciated.
Have a lock or key problem? Give us a call.
Call Mr. Locksmith to talk through what you need. We are happy to walk you through the details and discuss availability across the Triangle.