Lost Ignition Key? Here's What to Do

It is important to check all places you might have seen your ignition key. Retrace your steps and try to recall what you were doing when you last saw the keys.

Replacing a traditional car key is easy and inexpensive. A locksmith can create an entirely new key in a matter of minutes without the original. A key that is more advanced in technology, such as a smart key, transponder or switchblade will require assistance at the roadside.

1. Check the ignition

There are many factors that could cause your car key to not to turn on the ignition. The most important thing is that it may wear out. Over time the pins within the cylinder may wear out, preventing it from turning. This is the main reason why people aren't in a position to start their vehicle.

A dead battery on the key fob might require replacement. If this is the case, it's an easy fix that can be done at home. Simply buy an additional battery for your key fob and check whether it works in your car.

It could also be that the ignition switch you are using is not working. 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 does not actually start the vehicle, it is only a means for the engine to start.

If you own an ordinary ignition key, it has a metal shaft that is fitted into a plastic head or cylinder, within the ignition of your vehicle. When you turn the ignition key, it presses tumblers into an exact arrangement, and then shuts off the circuit for ignition. This then supplies power to the starter motor to allow the engine to begin.

Modern cars are equipped with an electronic chip embedded inside the key head to stop car theft. These keys are also known as transponder key. When you place a key with a transponder into the ignition, it sends an identification code to the car's antenna ring. This unique code lets the computer of the engine to turn on the starter motor.

If your car has transponder technology, you will not be capable of starting it when the battery on the key fob goes out. It's always a good idea to have a spare car key on hand, just in case. However, the majority of auto makers build in a failsafe to help get your car started in the event that the key with the chip is lost.

2. Check the Locks

Car keys usually get lost when you're in a hurry or doing something that demands your attention. If you're not careful they could easily get lost which can lead to stress. There are steps you can take to avoid frustration and panic back to your keys.

You may think that traditional keys are no longer needed, but they are still available at your local auto dealer or automotive locksmith. These are standard keys which lock the ignition and door and allow the car to start when you turn it. They can also be used to open a trunk or glove box. The traditional keys are most affordable and easiest to replace. The locksmith in your neighborhood will cut you one while you wait.

Key fobs first came into use in the late '90s and are made of made of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle (and in certain cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk). Some of these devices have physical keys. Fobs can be reprogrammed by your local locksmith however only after a new transponder chip as well as the transmitter have been added to the key.

Many of us have had the misfortune of not having our keys when we are stressed or distracted. If you were in a taxi or other ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft you might not have been an issue if they were left in your seat. If you do are unable to locate them at home or at work, you could put your belongings and your family's safety at risk.

Try your spare key first. It might be hidden somewhere in your home or in your bag, making it worth a quick search. Also, think about going back to where you left your vehicle to the place of work or residence.

Another alternative is to run your VIN number through the key database. If your locks have been modified or rekeyed or rekeyed, running your VIN number through the key database won't produce a new key that works. Guardian Safe & Lock recommends that replacement automotive locks be re-keyed in accordance with the original key cut as often as is feasible.

3. Check the door locks

If you're having trouble getting your car to start, it may be an issue with the door locks. They could be open or locked with the key inside. If you've lost your car keys, it is recommended to have a backup key that came with the vehicle. Keys are often stored in the key fob or as a backup you can use to unlock your vehicle. You can also try using an instrument like the Slim Jim to gain entry into your car without causing damage to the door locks or ignition switch.

The battery might be dead If the key fob functions but won't turn on the ignition. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the batteries on the key fob and reprogram it if necessary.

Over time, car key edges can wear away and break off in the ignition lock or cylinder. This could make it difficult to turn the ignition because the wafers that make up the key aren't fully engaged.

A car key can also occasionally turn off or on when in the ignition. This is due to the fact that the internal components are wearing out and causing intermittent issues with the ignition switch.

When people attempt to start their vehicle, they usually grab the wrong key from their key ignition replacement table or ring. This can cause problems because keys that look identical, and you may be putting the wrong key into the ignition key cylinder.

You can fix this problem at home using a cotton swab dipped in ruby alcohol. This will remove any foreign substance off the surface of the key that can hinder it from turning the ignition or unlocking the doors.

If you're still having issues take a note of your VIN number (vehicle ID number) before you call a locksmith. This will increase the likelihood of locating someone to replace your car key. Your VIN is usually located on your insurance card but it's also located in other places on the vehicle itself, such as on a panel above the driver's seat and on the back of the engine block in the trunk, or the door jamb and on the frame that runs between the carburetor washer and the windshield.

4. Contact a locksmith

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

A locksmith is a professional contractor who has specialized skills in everything related to locks and access to. They are trained in the installation as well as the removal, repair and disassembly of locks ignition cylinders, and doors.

The majority of people in this situation try to save money and call their car dealership for the new set. This is usually a bad decision. Dealerships typically charge more than other parts stores or shops and it could take an extended time to obtain the keys you need.

You can also call a locksmith to unlock your lock in case of emergency. They will then design new keys for you. The locksmith will likely only require the spare key to decode the lock, so they can create a brand new key for your car. The locksmith will remove the old key and program the new one to start the vehicle.

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

Today, most cars include transponder keys that utilize tiny plastic heads with a computer chip to communicate with the car's immobilizer. The chip may be damaged due to water, heat, battery issues or any other cause. In this instance you'll need to replace the key and re-program the computer in your vehicle to accept it. A mobile locksmith who is knowledgeable will be able to create keys for you that will work in the future.