Car Ignition Damaged In A Kia Or Hyundai Theft Attempt? Locksmith Or Mechanic?
If a Kia or Hyundai was damaged in a theft attempt, a locksmith can fix the ignition cylinder, the key and the immobiliser side, with ignition repair or replacement at $185 to $495 in Kenner. Damage to trim, wiring or bodywork is a mechanic or body-shop job. File a police report and tell your insurer before repairs, and do not force the key.
Drivers around New Orleans and Kenner have been asking online who to call after this kind of damage: a locksmith or a mechanic. The answer depends on what is broken, so this post splits the job by part. For key replacement on these makes, see Hyundai and Kia key replacement.
What can a theft attempt damage?
- The ignition cylinder, so the key will not turn or the car will not start.
- The steering column cover and trim, which are cosmetic or body-shop repairs.
- The key or fob, if the immobiliser no longer recognises it.
- A broken key stuck in the ignition, see key broken in car ignition.
Locksmith or mechanic: who fixes what?
| Problem | Who handles it | Published price |
|---|---|---|
| Ignition cylinder damaged or pulled | Automotive locksmith | $185–$495 repair or replacement |
| Broken key stuck in the ignition | Automotive locksmith | $95–$185 |
| New key needed so the car starts (transponder) | Automotive locksmith | $125–$250 |
| New smart key / push-to-start | Automotive locksmith | $200–$400 |
| Every key gone | Automotive locksmith | $225–$695 all keys lost |
| Steering column trim, wiring, bodywork | Mechanic or body shop | Not a locksmith job |
Newer cars can add $75 to $250 because they need a scan tool, as the prices page explains. Tell us the make, model and year and we will confirm we can do the ignition and key side before you commit.
What should you do first?
- Do not force the key. That can turn a repairable cylinder into a replacement.
- Photograph the damage before anything is touched.
- File a police report and tell your insurer, since they may need both before repairs.
- Keep the car somewhere safe until it is repaired.
- Then call for the lock and key side, and a mechanic for anything beyond it.
What if the keys are lost as well?
Then it is an all-keys-lost job on top of the ignition work, which takes longer because ownership has to be verified. See all keys lost, what happens next and what is included in a key fob replacement. For the wider service, see automotive locksmith in Kenner and car key replacement.
Quick answers
Do I need a locksmith or a mechanic after a theft attempt?
A locksmith for the ignition cylinder, key and immobiliser. A mechanic or body shop for trim, wiring and bodywork.
How much does ignition repair cost?
$185 to $495 for ignition repair or replacement, plus $75 to $250 on newer cars that need a scan tool.
Should I try to start the car again?
No. Forcing the key or repeated attempts can make a repairable ignition need replacing.
Do I need a police report before repairs?
Usually yes for an insurance claim. File one and tell your insurer before repairs begin.