Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

If you lost the ignition key, it's vital to check all the places you might have seen it. Retrace your footsteps and try to recall what you were doing when you last saw the keys.

Replacing a car key is easy and cost-effective. Locksmiths can create an entirely new key in a matter of minutes without the original. However, a more technologically advanced key such as the switchblade, transponder or smart key will require roadside assistance to replace.

1. Check the ignition

There are a few different reasons that could cause your car key not to turn on the ignition. The most important thing is that it may wear out. As time passes the pins in the cylinder may wear out and stop it from turning. This is the main reason for people not being able to start their car.

A dead battery inside the key fob could need to be replaced. This is a straightforward fix that can be completed at home. Buy new batteries for the key fob and test it to see if it is compatible with your car ignition switch.

It is possible that your ignition switch may have malfunction. The ignition switch is an electrical component that supplies power to various components when you insert your car key into the ignition cylinder. It is important to note that the ignition switch will not start the vehicle; it only allows the engine to start.

When you turn the key in your ignition and it pushes tumblers into a precise arrangement and closes an ignition circuit. When you turn the key in your ignition, it pushes a set of tumblers into a specific arrangement and closes the circuit for ignition, which will then supply power to the starter motor in order to start the engine.

Modern cars have an electronic chip that is embedded inside the head of the key to stop car theft. These keys are often referred to as transponder keys. When you insert a key with transponder inside your ignition, it transmits an identification code to your car's antenna. This unique code can let the computer of the engine to start the starter motor.

If your car uses transponder keys that is not a transponder key, it will be impossible to start it in the event that the battery for the key fob fails. It is always a good idea to keep an extra car key available, just in case. However, most auto manufacturers have a failsafe feature to get your car started if the key with the chip is lost.

2. Check the Locks

Car keys are typically lost when you're in a rush or performing something that requires your attention. They can be easily lost if you're not careful and can result in a stressful situation when it occurs. Fortunately, there are ways to go from frustration and panic to find your keys again.

You might think that traditional keys are a thing of the past but they're actually can be purchased from your auto dealership or from an automotive locksmith. These are keys that lock your ignition and door and then start the engine when you turn it. You can also utilize these keys to unlock your trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are the most affordable and easy to replace. A locksmith at your local will cut you one while you wait.

Key fobs were introduced in the '90s and are made of plastic casings with buttons that lock and unlock your car (and in certain instances, set off the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices come with physical keys. Your local automotive locksmith can reprogram fobs, but only after adding an additional transponder and transmitter chip to the key.

We've all made the mistake of leaving our keys behind when we're in a rush or distracted. If you were in a taxi or other ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft you may not have been an issue if they were left in your seat. If you have them stolen at work or home, you could put your family's belongings and personal belongings in danger.

Check your spare key first. You might find it in your house or bag. It's worth a quick glance. You might want to retrace the steps you took from the place you parked your vehicle to your workplace or home.

You can also run your VIN through the key database. If your locks have been rekeyed or replaced, running your VIN through the key database won't produce keys that work. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that replacement automotive locks be re-keyed to match the original key cut whenever possible.

3. Check the Door Locks

If you're having difficulty getting your car started, it could be a problem with the door locks. The door locks could be locked or open with the key inside. If you lose your car keys you should have a spare key that came with the vehicle. The keys are located in the key fob or as backup keys that you use to unlock your vehicle. You can also use a device like a Slim Jim in order to gain access to your vehicle without causing damage the ignition switch or door locks.

The battery might be dead If the key fob is working but won't turn on the ignition. It is necessary to replace the batteries in the keyfob and reprogramme the device if required.

Over time, car key edges may wear away and break off in the ignition cylinder or Lost Ignition Key lock. The wafers on the keys might not be engaged properly, making it difficult to turn the ignition.

Another issue that is common to the car key is that it can sometimes switch off and on when it's in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition switch are wearing out, causing intermittent issues.

When people try to start their car, they often pick the wrong key from their key table or ring. This could cause problems as certain keys look similar and you could be putting the wrong key into the ignition cylinder.

This is a simple fix that you can make at home: simply clean the key using a cotton swab and some ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign material off the surface of the key that can stop it from turning the ignition or unlocking the doors.

If you're still having issues, you should write down your VIN (vehicle identification number) before contacting an locksmith. This increases the chances of locating someone to replace your car keys. The VIN will usually be found on your insurance card but it's also located in other places on the vehicle itself, including on a panel just above the driver's seat, on the back of the engine block, in the trunk or the door jamb, and on the frame between the carburetor and windshield washer.

4. Call for a locksmith

It's scary to be locked out of your vehicle especially at night. If you aren't sure where your keys are, or if they've been lost or stolen, it is best to call a locksmith.

A locksmith is an expert contractor who has specialized knowledge of locks and access. They are certified in the installation as well as the removal, repair and disassembly of locks, ignition cylinders, and doors.

Most people who find themselves in this kind of situation attempt to save money by calling their local dealership to request a new set. This is typically not a good idea. Most dealerships will charge you much more than other shops or parts stores, and it could take some time to receive your keys.

You can also contact a locksmith to unlock your lock in an emergency. They will then design new keys for you. If you have a spare key, the locksmith will probably only need to use it to decode the lock so they can make a new key that will work with your vehicle. The locksmith will remove the old key and then program a new one to start the vehicle.

If you own an transponder key, the locksmith will need to gain entry into your vehicle, then employ a specific device to re-program the car's computer to connect to the new key. This is a process called "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".

Transponder keys are utilized in a majority of automobiles in the present. They utilize a tiny plastic key that has a computer chip to communicate with an immobilizer. The chip may be damaged due to water, heat and battery issues, or any other reason. In this case you'll have to replace the key and reprogram the car's computer to accept it. A mobile locksmith who is experienced will be able create keys for you that will function in the future.