There’s nothing more frustrating than turning the key in your ignition and realizing your car won’t start. Whether you're on your way to work or preparing for a weekend getaway, a dead vehicle can quickly ruin your plans. If you're in Devon, reaching out to a trusted Auto Locksmith Exeter like DB Car Keys can often get you back on the road quicker than you'd expect. Many non-starting issues are key- or ignition-related, and an experienced auto locksmith is trained to diagnose and resolve these problems efficiently.
1. Dead Key Fob Battery
If your car uses a push-button start system or remote keyless entry, a dead key fob battery could be the culprit. When the battery in your key fob dies, it won’t be able to communicate with your vehicle. Some cars have a manual backup option, but if you're unaware of it or it's not functioning, your car may refuse to start.
How an Auto Locksmith Can Help:
A professional auto locksmith can replace the fob battery, reprogram it if needed, or provide a spare key fob on-site. In many cases, they’ll save you a trip to the dealership and cost you less.
2. Faulty Ignition Switch
If your dashboard lights up but the engine doesn’t turn over, the problem may lie with your ignition switch. Over time, ignition switches wear out, particularly if you use a heavy keychain or insert your key forcefully.
Signs of Ignition Switch Failure:
- Dashboard lights flicker or don't come on
- Key won’t turn
- No sound when turning the key
What DB Car Keys Can Do:
As skilled auto locksmiths, they can diagnose a faulty ignition switch, replace or repair it, and even reprogram your key to work with a new ignition barrel.
3. Worn Out Car Key
Keys naturally wear down over time, especially if they’re made of soft metal. A worn key might not turn in the ignition, or worse, get stuck or break off inside.
When to Call an Auto Locksmith:
If your key is visibly worn or isn’t turning the ignition properly, DB Car Keys can cut a new key using your vehicle’s VIN or by decoding the existing one. They can also extract broken keys safely from locks or ignitions.
4. Immobiliser Issues
Most modern cars have an immobiliser system designed to prevent theft. If the immobiliser doesn’t recognize your key, the car won’t start. This might happen after a battery replacement, electrical fault, or attempted theft.
Warning Signs:
- Key symbol flashing on dashboard
- Engine turns over but doesn't start
- Alarm won’t disengage
Auto Locksmiths Are Experts in Immobilisers:
DB Car Keys can reprogram your key, sync it with the immobiliser, or reset the system entirely to ensure your car starts as it should.
5. Dead Car Battery
This is one of the most common reasons a car won’t start. If you hear a clicking noise when turning the key or your lights won’t come on, your battery might be dead.
How It Relates to Locksmith Services:
While locksmiths don’t replace car batteries, many offer roadside diagnostics to confirm the battery is the issue — saving you time diagnosing the wrong problem. If your key fob or immobiliser is still operational, a locksmith can confirm whether the issue is electrical or related to the key/ignition.
6. Steering Wheel Lock Engaged
If the steering wheel is locked, your key may not turn at all. This anti-theft feature activates when the wheel is turned after removing the key.
Solution:
Try turning the steering wheel gently while turning the key. If it doesn’t work, your lock mechanism might be jammed. DB Car Keys can repair or replace the steering lock mechanism and get your ignition moving again.
7. Faulty Starter Motor
The starter motor cranks your engine. If it fails, the engine won’t turn over.
How Can You Tell?
- Clicking or grinding noise when trying to start
- No sound at all
- Lights come on, but engine doesn't respond
Role of Auto Locksmiths:
While this is more of a mechanical issue, some auto locksmiths like DB Car Keys can perform basic diagnostics and determine whether the problem is electronic, key-related, or mechanical — so you don’t waste time on unnecessary repairs.
8. Damaged Key Transponder
Transponder chips are embedded in most modern car keys. If damaged, the key might not be recognized, even if it physically turns in the ignition.
Causes of Transponder Failure:
- Water damage
- Physical damage
- Faulty chip
- Battery failure
Fix by DB Car Keys:
They can test the key’s transponder, reprogram it, or provide a replacement key with a working chip. It’s faster and more cost-effective than going through a dealership.
9. Aftermarket Alarm or Immobiliser Interference
Aftermarket security systems can sometimes conflict with the car’s original systems, leading to a no-start issue. This is particularly common if the alarm system is outdated or poorly installed.
Solution:
A qualified auto locksmith can identify and safely disable or reprogram aftermarket alarms or immobilisers to restore normal starting function.
10. Weather-Related Problems
Extreme cold or heat can affect your vehicle’s electrical systems and key function. In winter, moisture can freeze in locks or around the ignition, making it impossible to insert or turn the key.
Auto Locksmith Fix:
An experienced local locksmith like DB Car Keys in Exeter understands how to deal with seasonal issues quickly — whether it’s defrosting frozen locks or replacing affected electronic components.
When Should You Call an Auto Locksmith?
You should call an auto locksmith if:
- Your key won’t turn or is stuck
- Your key fob isn't working or isn’t recognized
- The immobiliser system is preventing the car from starting
- Your key is broken, lost, or damaged
- Your ignition barrel appears faulty
Why DB Car Keys?
With years of experience in Exeter and surrounding areas, DB Car Keys offers fast, mobile, and affordable solutions for almost every key- or ignition-related issue. They save you from costly dealership visits and long waiting times by coming directly to your location with the tools and expertise to fix the problem on the spot.
Conclusion
Not every car that won’t start has a major mechanical fault — in fact, many cases are related to keys, ignition systems, or immobilisers. If you're in Devon and stuck with a non-starting car, calling an experienced Auto Locksmith Exeter like DB Car Keys could save you time, stress, and money. From diagnosing key fob issues to fixing ignitions and replacing transponders, they offer a fast and reliable service that gets you moving again.