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St. Charles Locksmith Blog

7 Common Car Key Problems in St. Peters and Their Solutions

Published May 20th, 2025 by ASAP Lock & Key

Car key troubles can happen at the worst times, leaving you stranded in St. Peters when you least expect it. Whether you're rushing to work or heading home after a long day, key problems need quick solutions. These are the most common car key issues and how to fix them.

Broken Keys That Just Won't Turn

Metal keys can wear down or break after years of use. When your key gets stuck in the ignition or won't turn smoothly, don't force it. This could make things worse by damaging the ignition cylinder. A professional locksmith can extract broken keys and cut new ones on the spot. We often help St. Peters drivers with broken keys by creating fresh copies that work perfectly.

Dead Key Fob Batteries Causing Stress

Modern key fobs make life easier until their batteries die. If your fob stops working, first try replacing the battery. But sometimes the issue goes deeper than just the battery. The internal circuits or buttons might need repair. Our key fob service can diagnose and fix these problems quickly.

Keys That Get Stuck in the Ignition

Finding your key stuck in the ignition is frustrating and scary. 

  • Steering wheel lock engaged
  • Damaged key teeth
  • Faulty ignition cylinder
  • Debris in the lock

Never try to yank the key out forcefully. This could break the key or damage your ignition. Our automotive lockout specialists can safely remove stuck keys and repair any underlying issues.

Transponder Key Programming Issues

Modern car keys contain tiny chips that must sync with your car's computer. When this connection fails, your car won't start even with a perfectly cut key. We provide expert automotive car key programming to restore that vital connection between your key and vehicle.

Lost or Stolen Car Keys

Losing your only car key is more than inconvenient, it's a security risk. You need a replacement fast, but also want to ensure no one can use your lost keys. Our emergency locksmith service can cut and program new keys while also reprogramming your car's system to reject the old ones.

Dealing with Duplicate Key Failures

Not all key copies are created equal. Cheap duplicates from hardware stores often work poorly or fail completely. Professional key cutting ensures precise copies that work smoothly every time. We use advanced equipment to create perfect duplicates that match your original key's specifications exactly.

Smart Solutions for Modern Key Systems

Today's vehicles use complex electronic key systems that require specialized knowledge to service. Our team stays current with the latest automotive security technology to handle any key system issue. From basic cuts to advanced programming, we provide complete key solutions for St. Peters drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make a new car key? Most basic car keys can be cut in 15-30 minutes. Programming transponder keys may take an additional 20-40 minutes depending on your vehicle make and model.

Can I get a car key made without the original? Yes, we can create new keys using your vehicle's VIN number and proof of ownership. This process may take slightly longer than copying an existing key.

What should I do if my key breaks off in the lock? Don't try to remove it yourself,  this could cause more damage. Call a professional locksmith who has the right tools to safely extract the broken key.

Expert Help When You Need It Most

Don't let car key problems leave you stranded in St. Peters. ASAP Lock & Key provides fast, professional solutions for all automotive key and lock issues. Schedule service online or call 636-634-8062 for immediate assistance.

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