Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

If you lost your ignition key, it's important to find out where you could have seen it. Follow your steps and try to remember what you were doing the last time you saw the keys.

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

1. Check the ignition

There are many reasons the car key won't turn in the ignition. First, it could be worn. Over time the pins inside the cylinder could be worn out, preventing it from turning. This is the most common reason for people not being capable of starting their car.

Another possibility is that the key fob is a dead battery that needs to be replaced. This is a simple fix that can be completed at home. Purchase a new key fob battery and check if it works with your car.

In the end, it could be that the ignition switch you are using is not working. The ignition switch is a component that powers certain components upon inserting your car key in the ignition cylinder. The ignition switch isn't the one that actually starts the car; it's only the one that allows the engine to start.

When you turn the ignition key it forces tumblers into an exact arrangement and closes an ignition circuit. When you turn the key on your ignition, it presses a set of tumblers into a specific arrangement and shuts off an ignition circuit that will then supply power to the starter motor in order to start the engine.

Modern cars employ a different method to stop theft of cars using an electronic chip built into the head of the key. These keys are often called transponder keys. When you insert a lock equipped with a transponder inside the ignition, it transmits an identification code to the car's antenna ring. This code is unique and will activate the engine's computer and allow the starter motor to turn over.

If your car is equipped with 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 dies. It's always a good idea to have an extra car key available, just in case. However, many auto manufacturers have a failsafe feature to help get your car started in the event that the key with the chip is lost.

2. Check the Locks

When you are in a hurry or doing something other thing that requires your attention, it is more likely that you'll lose your car keys. If you're not careful, they can easily be misplaced which can lead to stress. There are steps you can take to avoid frustration and panic back to your keys.

It's possible to think that keys that were traditionally used are an old fashion thing, but they're still around and can be purchased from your auto dealership or from an automotive locksmith. These are standard keys that lock your ignition and door, and then start the engine when you turn it. You can also use these keys to open a glove box or trunk. Traditional keys are typically the least expensive to replace, and your local locksmith should be able cut a key while you wait.

Key fobs were introduced in the '90s, and they are plastic casings that have buttons that can lock and unlock your vehicle (and in certain cases they can set off the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices include physical keys. Fobs can be reprogrammed by your local automotive locksmith, but only after a new transponder chip and an additional transmitter are added to the key.

Many of us have been guilty of forgetting our keys when we are stressed or distracted. It's not important if you left keys in your car in a taxi, subway, bus or ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. If you are unable to locate them at home or at work, you may put your belongings and your family's safety at risk.

If you have an extra key, try that first. You may find it in your bag or house. It's worth a quick search. Also, think about returning to the place you left your vehicle to the workplace or home.

You can also run your VIN through the key database. If your locks have already been rekeyed or changed, running your VIN through the key database will not produce an appropriate key. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that new automotive locks be re-keyed in accordance with the original key cut whenever it is possible.

3. Check the Door Locks

If you're having difficulty getting your car started, it may be an issue with the door locks. They could be open or locked with the key inside. If you lose your car keys, there should be a spare key that was included with the vehicle. These keys can be found in the key fob, or as backup keys that you can use to unlock your vehicle. You could also use a tool like a Slim Jim in order to gain access to your vehicle without damaging the ignition switch or door locks.

If the key fob is functioning, but it won't turn the ignition, this could be because the battery has failed. You'll need to replace the batteries in the keyfob and reprogramme the device if needed.

Over time, car key edges can wear away and break off in the ignition cylinder or lock. The wafers that make up the key may not be properly engaged which makes it difficult to turn the ignition.

The car key can occasionally turn off or on when it is in the ignition. The internal components of the ignition barrel replacement near me switch are deteriorating, causing intermittent problems.

It's not common for people to pick the wrong key off their table or their key ring when they're trying to get their car started. This can lead to problems since certain keys look similar and you could be accidentally inserting the wrong key into the ignition cylinder.

It is possible to fix this issue at home using a cotton Swab that is dipped into ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign matter off the surface of the key that can prevent it from turning in the ignition or unlocking the doors.

If you still have trouble take a note of your VIN number (vehicle ID number) before you call a locksmith. This will give you a better chance of finding someone who can assist you with replacing your car keys. You can locate your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a panel above the driver's chair, on the engine block's back or in the trunk or on the door jamb.

4. Contact a locksmith

Being locked out of your vehicle is terrifying, especially on a dark night. If you aren't sure where your keys are, or if they've been stolen or lost, it is best to call a locksmith.

A locksmith is a skilled contractor who has specialized skills in everything related to locks and entry access. They are trained to install, remove, fix and take apart doors, locks, and ignition cylinders.

A lot of people in this kind of situation try to save money by calling their dealership to make new keys however this is generally not a good idea. Most dealerships charge a lot more than other car parts stores or shops, and it can take some time to receive the keys you need.

Luckily, you can also find locksmiths in times of need and have them decode your lock or design the new one for Lost Ignition Key you. The locksmith will probably require your spare key to decode the lock, so they can make a new key for your vehicle. The locksmith will remove the old key and program an entirely new one to begin the vehicle.

The locksmith must enter your vehicle to reprogram the computer of the car to accept the new key. This is a procedure known as "all key lost" or "key fob replacement".

Transponder keys are utilized in most cars nowadays. They are a small plastic key with a computer-chip to communicate with an immobilizer. The chip in the key may be damaged by heat, water and battery problems, as well as other factors that cause it to malfunction. In this case you'll have to replace the key and reprogram the car's computer to accept it. A locksmith on the move who is knowledgeable will be able to create an appropriate key that will function in the future.