Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

It is crucial to examine every place you might have seen your ignition key. Follow your steps and try to recall what you were doing the last time you recall seeing the keys.

Replacing a traditional car key is simple and inexpensive. Locksmiths can make an entirely new key in a matter of minutes without the original. A key that is more technologically advanced, such as a smart key, transponder or switchblade will require assistance from a roadside.

1. Check the Ignition

There are a variety of reasons your car key won't turn in the ignition. The first thing is that it could be worn out. As time passes the pins in the cylinder can wear down and stop it from turning. This is the primary reason for people not being capable of starting their car.

Another possibility is that the key fob has a dead battery and needs to be replaced. If this is the case, it is a simple fix ignition switch and can be done at home. Purchase new batteries for the key fob and check if it works with your car.

Lastly, it may be that the ignition switch you are using is not working. The ignition switch is a part that supplies power to specific components after inserting your car keys into the ignition cylinder. The ignition switch is not the one that actually starts the car; it's only the one that allows the engine to start.

When you turn the key in your ignition and it pushes a set of tumblers into a precise arrangement and then closes an ignition circuit. When you turn your ignition key, it presses tumblers into an exact arrangement and closes the ignition circuit. This will then supply power to the starter motor so that the engine can start.

Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip embedded inside the head of the key to guard against theft of cars. They are also referred to as transponder key. When you insert a lock with a transponder inside your ignition, it transmits an identification code to your car's antenna. This unique code will allow the engine's computer start the starter motor.

If your car has a transponder, you will not be able to start it when the battery in the key fob fails. This is the reason it is always an excellent idea to have an extra key on hand, just in case! However, the majority of auto makers have a failsafe feature to ensure that your car is started in the event that the key with the chip is lost.

2. Check the Locks

When you are in a hurry or performing something other thing that requires your attention, it is more likely that you will lose your car keys. If you're not careful they could easily get lost which can lead to an unsettling situation. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid panic and stress to finding your keys again.

You might think traditional keys are obsolete however, they are available at your local auto dealer or automotive locksmith. These are standard keys that secure your ignition and door, and start the engine when you turn it. You can also use these keys to open a glove box or trunk. The traditional keys are most affordable and easy to replace. Your local locksmith can cut you one while you sit.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular. They are plastic casings with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock the car (and in some cases, activate the alarm or open your trunk). Some of these devices come with physical keys that are tucked inside. Fobs can be programmed by a locksmith in your area, but only after a new transponder chip and a transmitter have been added to the key.

Most of us have been guilty of omitting our keys while stressed or distracted. It's probably not important even if you put them in your seat if you took a subway, taxi or bus, or a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. If you do lose them at home or at work, you may put your belongings and your family's safety at risk.

If you have an extra key, you can take it out first. It might be hidden somewhere in your home or in your bag, so it's worth a quick search. Also, consider retracing your steps from where you left your vehicle to get to your home or work place.

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 won't produce keys that work. This is the reason Guardian Safe & Lock recommends having replacement automotive locks re-keyed to the original key cuts as often as is possible.

3. Check the Door Locks

You may have problems with the door Lost Ignition Key locks if you are having trouble getting your vehicle started. The door locks could be locked or opened by using the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, it is recommended to have a spare backup key that came with the vehicle. The keys are usually kept in the key fob or as a backup you can use to unlock the 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.

The battery may 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 ignition barrel replacement key edges may wear away and break off in the ignition lock or cylinder. The wafers that make up the key might not be fully engaged, making it difficult to turn the ignition.

A car key can also occasionally switch on and off when in the ignition. This is because the internal components are wearing down, causing intermittent problems with the ignition switch.

It's not uncommon for people to mistakenly grab the wrong key from their table or ring when they're trying to get their car started. It could be a challenge because some keys are very similar and you could accidentally insert the wrong key into the ignition.

It is possible to fix this issue at home using a cotton swab that has been dipped in ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign material from the surface of the key that could stop it from turning the ignition or unlocking the doors.

If you're still having issues make 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 find your VIN on your insurance card. It's also on a piece of paper above the driver's seat on the back of the engine block and in the trunk or on the door jamb.

4. Call an expert locksmith

Being locked out of your vehicle is an extremely stressful situation, particularly in the dark of night. If you aren't sure where your keys are, or if they have been lost or stolen, it is best to contact a locksmith.

A locksmith is a professional contractor who is skilled in all aspects of locks and access to. They are certified in the installation, removal, repair and disassembly of locks ignition cylinders and doors.

Most people who find themselves in this position try to save money and call their dealership to get a new set. This is usually an unwise choice. Most dealerships will charge you much more than other shops or car parts stores, and it might take a while to get your keys.

Luckily, you can also find a locksmith in an emergency and have them decode your lock or create an entirely new key for you. If you have a spare key the locksmith will likely require it to decode the lock so that they can create a new key that will work with your vehicle. The locksmith will take out the old key and then program a new one to start the vehicle.

If you own a transponder key the locksmith will require to gain access into your vehicle, then use a special device to reprogram your car's computer to be able to connect with the new key. This process is called "key fob replacement" or "all keys lost".

Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of cars nowadays. They use a small plastic key with a computer-chip to communicate with an immobilizer. The chip inside the key could be damaged by heat, water, Lost Ignition Key battery problems, or other factors that cause it malfunction. In this case, you'll need to replace the key and re-program the car's computer to accept it. A locksmith on the move who is knowledgeable will be able create keys for you that will function in the future.