Ctrl key doesn't work on Compaq Presario 2100

[Jamiespazz]

Hello. This is my first time posting, so forgive me if I make a mistake..

I am on a Compaq Presario 2100 Notebook (laptop), Model 2135CA, and since yesterday, my Ctrl key doesn't work. I'm being told by the people at Compaq that I should replace my laptop, but I'd rather NOT spend hundreds of dollars just to fix two keys. It's both my Ctrl keys that don't work. Any help would be grateful..

I have tried an external keyboard, and the Ctrl keys work. I have tried the Ctrl+Alt+Shift, I have tried spontaneous typing while occasionally hitting the Ctrl key.. I find it hard to believe that both Ctrl keys that are opposite on the keyboard can both malfunction at the same time. Again.. Any help would be immensely appreciated.

Edit: Oh.. And I'm using Windows XP.