Signs of an ignition problem
- The key inserts but stops part-way, or won't turn at all
- The barrel feels rough, stiff or wobbly
- Signs of tampering around the ignition, often after an attempted theft
- The key turns as normal, but nothing on the dash or the starter responds
- Part of the key is still sitting in the ignition
Any of these call for a diagnosis first — they don't automatically add up to a replacement. A key that binds or won't turn usually points to the blade or the mechanical barrel; a key that turns while the electrics stay dead suggests the switch behind it. Batteries and wiring can imitate both. We find the actual cause, explain it, and only then talk about work.
Ignition services we offer
Mechanical ignition barrel repair or replacement
Suited to vans with a traditional turn-key ignition where the barrel has become worn, sticky, seized or physically damaged.
Electrical ignition switch replacement
Covers the switch sitting behind the barrel, which can fail independently so the key turns but the electrics don't react properly.
Electronic ignition (EIS) work
Applies to vans running an electronic ignition unit instead of a plain mechanical barrel, including certain push-button setups.
Broken key extraction from the ignition
Getting a snapped blade safely out of the ignition first, without further damage, ahead of cutting a replacement key.
Push-button and card-start vans have no mechanical barrel at all — they run on electronic units instead — so the right fix depends on the vehicle. Wherever we can, your original key stays in use.
Ignition replacement by manufacturer
How it works
Send the registration, make, model and year, where the van sits, what the ignition is doing, whether the key turns and whether you hold a working spare. We'll say what's likely involved, then attend the van — home, yard or job site. Ownership is verified before any work begins.
We cover Southampton and nearby areas including Shirley, Freemantle, Millbrook, Lordshill and more — see all areas covered.
Related key services
Van ignition questions
If my key won't turn, does that always mean a new ignition?
Not necessarily. A key that's physically stuck, catching or feels stiff can be down to a worn or damaged blade, or wear inside the mechanical barrel. We work out the cause before recommending any work.
The key turns but the van won't start — could that be the ignition switch?
It's possible. A faulty electrical ignition switch can stop things working even when the key turns normally, but battery, wiring and other issues can look identical, so we diagnose before suggesting a replacement.
Can I hang on to my original key?
That depends on the van and the fault involved. We aim to keep your original key where we can and will tell you if a new one turns out to be necessary.
Will fixing the ignition solve my van not starting?
Only if the ignition is actually the cause. Plenty of no-start issues have nothing to do with it, so we check first before doing any ignition work.
A key has broken off inside my ignition — what should I do?
Leave the broken piece exactly where it is and don't try forcing anything into the ignition. Get in touch with your registration and location.
Do you travel out to the van itself?
Yes — this is a mobile service, and we'll come to your van at home, on your yard, or wherever the job site happens to be.