Car keys and vehicle locking systems have become much more advanced in recent years. While this offers better security, it also means more things can go wrong. If you’ve recently searched for terms like “car key not working near me”, “car key won’t start the car” or “auto locksmith Crawley for key problems”, this guide explains the most common issues and how a mobile auto locksmith can fix them quickly.
As a mobile auto locksmith operating across Crawley, West Sussex and surrounding areas, I deal with these problems daily and can repair or replace most keys on-site.
1. Car Key Not Turning in the Ignition
One of the most common calls I receive involves keys that will not turn or only work sometimes.
This can be caused by:
- A worn key blade
- A damaged ignition barrel
- A steering lock fault
- The key is not being recognised by the immobiliser
How a locksmith can fix it:
I can cut a new key blade to factory specifications, repair or replace the ignition barrel, and diagnose steering lock or immobiliser faults at your location.
2. Key Fob Buttons Not Responding
Remote fobs can fail even when the key blade still works in the door.
Causes include:
- Worn or damaged rubber buttons
- Broken internal components
- Water damage
- Dead batteries
How a locksmith can fix it:
I can repair or replace the remote fob, reprogram it to your vehicle and provide a fully functioning replacement on-site.
3. Car Not Unlocking or Locking With the Remote
If the remote light flashes but the car doesn’t respond, the issue may be with the vehicle rather than the fob.
Common reasons:
- Faulty central locking module
- Low vehicle battery
- Antenna or receiver failure
- Remote is out of sync with the vehicle
How a locksmith can fix it:
I can diagnose whether the issue is with the fob or the vehicle. If needed, I can resynchronise the remote, replace damaged components or supply a new programmed key.
4. Lost or Stolen Car Keys
This is one of the most stressful issues for drivers, and it’s also one of the most frequently searched online problems, such as “lost car key Crawley replacement” or “can a locksmith replace a car key without the original?”
How a locksmith can fix it:
A mobile auto locksmith can:
- Create a brand-new key without the original
- Program it directly to the vehicle
- Remove old keys from the car’s memory (so they cannot be used)
- Provide a spare key at the same time
All of this can be done roadside without needing to tow the vehicle.
5. Car Won’t Start Due to Immobiliser Problems
If the key turns, but nothing happens, or you see an immobiliser warning on the dashboard, the car is not recognising the key’s transponder chip.
How a locksmith can fix it:
I can test and reprogram the immobiliser system, replace faulty transponder chips and ensure the key correctly communicates with the vehicle.
6. Worn or Snapped Key Blades
Keys naturally wear down over time, especially older metal blades.
Worn blades may:
- Only works sometimes
- Stop turning the lock
- Snap inside the ignition or door
How a locksmith can fix it:
I can cut a new blade to the original factory code and safely extract broken blades from locks without causing damage.
7. Faulty Car Door Locks
Sometimes the issue isn’t the key — it’s the lock itself.
Common problems include:
- Damaged lock cylinders
- Frozen or seized mechanisms
- Internal wear
- Previous attempted break-ins
How a locksmith can fix it:
I can repair or replace door locks, match them to your existing key and ensure the vehicle locks and unlocks smoothly.
8. Car Key Battery Keeps Draining
If you’re constantly replacing your key battery, there may be an internal electronic fault.
A mobile locksmith can diagnose the key’s internal circuitry and repair or replace the remote so it functions reliably.
When to Call a Mobile Auto Locksmith
If your key is:
- Not unlocking the car
- Not starting the vehicle
- Not recognised by the immobiliser
- Snapped, damaged or worn
- Lost or stolen
- Fob buttons are not working
A mobile auto locksmith can come directly to your location and resolve the issue on-site. This saves the time, cost and hassle of visiting a dealership.
Areas Covered Across West Sussex
I provide mobile auto locksmith services in:
Crawley, Horsham, East Grinstead, Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Redhill, Reigate, Dorking, Horley, Brighton, Worthing, Gatwick, Lindfield, Billingshurst, Leatherhead and all surrounding villages within 45 minutes of RH10.
Need Help With a Car Key Problem?
If you’re experiencing any of the issues listed above, I can diagnose and fix the problem quickly. From key programming to remote repairs and lost key replacement, I offer a fast, professional and reliable service across Crawley and West Sussex.
www.247autolocksmith.co.uk